Obituary of Philip Gordon Ward

On July 31^st, 2023, Philip Gordon Ward passed away suddenly at home with his loving wife Suzanna by his side. Childhood sweethearts, life took Philip and Suzanna in different directions, but fortunately their paths crossed again and they rekindled their love. Philip was able to realize his dream of moving back to Hampton when he and Suzanna purchased their forever home nearly two years ago.

Philip had a huge heart and his kindness could be seen in many aspects of his personal and professional life. Philip started his career at Britex in the Narrows Department and then in Management. After Britex he became a forklift operator at Michelin. He then attended NSCC as a mature student. After earning a Certificate in Business Administration with Honors, Philip had several different careers. His passion was working with people with disabilities seeking employment.  His most recent role was the Interim Operations Manager at Community Inc, a non-profit charitable organization that assists persons with disabilities find employment. Admired by his peers, Philip was a natural public speaker and presented at industry conferences sharing his knowledge of career development. 

Born in Middleton on June 10, 1970, Philip was the son of Eleanor Connell (she sadly passed away in 2008) and Gordon Ward. Philip loved his family and was known affectionately by his family as ‘Duddie’. Philip was a devoted father to his children Shay and Ryan and adored his granddaughters Kaylee and Lilah. He had many fond memories of spending time with his children when they were youngsters. He was especially close with his Uncle Alan, his “blood brother” cousin Rodney, cousins Cody and Jennifer. He also had a special place in his heart for his cousin Amanda. Philip was predeceased by his cousin April. Her sudden passing left a huge hole in his heart.

Even though he was challenged by chronic pain, Philip loved life and lived every moment to the fullest. He had one gear and it was give‘er. He had varied interests, from being an avid motorcycle and car enthusiast to enjoying watching a good poker tournament. He loved riding his many toys especially his side by side while visiting friends in Hampton or touring backwoods trails. Also a big animal lover, Philip loved his puppy Loki. He loved Bossy too.

His infectious smile made an impact on everyone he met, and he was considered a close friend by many. Many friends considered him a family member. Philip will be dearly missed by all those who knew him.

A visitation before cremation will be held 2 to 4 pm on Saturday August 5, 2023, with a service being held 2 pm on Tuesday August 8, 2023 both in the Kaulbach Family Funeral Home in Bridgetown.  Interment of ashes will be announced at a later date. Donations in Philip’s memory may be made to Open Arms or the Valley Community Learning Association.