Major Randolph “Randy” Ward, USAF (Ret.) was born on May 30, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the union of Junius and Louisa Davis Ward. Following the passing of his birth mother, Randy was adopted and lovingly raised by his uncle and aunt, Randolph Ward, Sr. and Carrie S. Ward. After moving to Detroit, Michigan, he received his early education through the Detroit Public School System.

Randy continued his education at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business and was the Chartering President of the Zeta Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. With a desire to further his education, he later attended Northern Michigan University and Plattsburgh State University, studying secondary education and counseling.

Following graduation, Randy began pursuing a career in management with General Motors. However, after receiving a draft notice, he instead chose to enlist in the United States Air Force in September 1969. He initially served as an enlisted airman, and within three years, attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. His dedication and leadership later earned him a recommendation to attend the United States Air Force Officer Training School, where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in November 1972. Randy faithfully served his country for 20 years, ultimately achieving the rank of Major before retiring from military service in 1989.

Retirement from the military, however, did not slow Randy down. With a lifelong interest in wood working, he attended Savannah Technical College to pursue his passion for carpentry. He later began a second career with The Home Depot, first serving as a Millwork Specialist and eventually as an Assistant Store Manager. Randy dedicated another 26 years to The Home Depot before retiring in 2020.

Even in his free time, Randy could rarely be found sitting still. He was often building or repairing something, working on a project around the house, or lending his skills to family and friends. If something needed fixing, Randy was the person to call. His willingness to use his talents in service to others was just one of the many ways he demonstrated his love and generosity.

Faith was a cornerstone of Randy’s life. He was a faithful member of Savannah Deliverance Center, where he served as a Deacon, President of the DEC Business Men's organization, and church handyman. Whether serving within the walls of the church or helping someone in his everyday life, Randy demonstrated his faith through action. His unwavering belief in God, generous spirit, servant’s heart, and love for others were evident in the way he lived each day.

On November 22, 1984, Randy married the love of his life, Irene. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, faith, and togetherness. They cherished time spent with loved ones—celebrating holidays, attending family gatherings, and creating traditions and memories that will remain with their family for generations. Randy especially enjoyed cooking for those he loved. His one-of-a-kind candied yams and jambalaya served at Thanksgiving will be dearly missed.

Randy leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the lives of those who knew and loved him. Cherishing his precious memory are his devoted wife, Irene S. Ward of Richmond Hill, Georgia; four daughters, Carrie Ward of Argentina; Trisa Ward of Chicago, Illinois; Tonya Ward of Erie, Pennsylvania, and April Ward Johnson (Solomon) of Daphne, Alabama; one son, Freddie W. Brown, III (Jodi) of Alpharetta, Georgia; his beloved dog, Shag; 5 sisters-in law, 2 brothers-in-law, 17 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Randolph Ward, Sr.; his mother, Carrie S. Ward; his birth parents, Junius and Louisa D. Ward; six brothers, Percy, Robert, Arthur, Joshua, Israel, & Sidney Ward; and five sisters, Dorothy Morris, Evelle Thompson, Louise Ward, Verline Batiste, & Sadie Thigpen.