Gary Lee Ward, age 66, of Vilas, passed away Thursday, August 27, 2026, at his home.

He was born June 17, 1960, in Watauga County. He was the son of the late Linville and Orbie Trivette Ward. Gary worked as a mechanic at B. Miller Ford and Ossad Auto and was a member of Zionville Baptist Church.

Gary is survived by his wife, Mary Elaine Ford Ward of Vilas; one son, Aaron Ward of Vilas; two daughters, Crystal Ward of Banner Elk and Holly Arnold and husband Jason of Mountain City; grandchildren, Rylee and Jase Ward, Kinslee and Hayden Arnold; one brother, Galen Ward and wife Joan; one sister, Paula McGlamery and husband Gale; two nieces, Debra Dugger and Diane McGlamery; and one nephew, Dusty McGlamery.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Pete and Faye Ford Family Cemetery, 1110 Ford Road, Boone, NC. Pastor Ray Branch will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pete and Faye Ford Family Cemetery in care of Betty Graybeal, 156 Ford Nut Lane, Boone, NC 28607.

Online condolences may be sent to the Ward family at Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service⁠.

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.