Barry Ward

Barry N Ward was born on May 8, 1962, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to Rev. Dr. Benjamin Ward and Barbara Jean (Kilgore) Ward.

Barry spent his early childhood in Huntington, West Virginia, where he attended elementary school before moving with his family to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1975. There, he attended and graduated from West Division High School. He later attended and graduated from Marquette University, where his passion for music, ministry, and leadership flourished.

A gifted musician, director, and minister of music, Barry was the founder and organizer of the award-winning Marquette Gospel Choir. He also directed the YMCA Young Leadership Boys Choir and organized musical groups including Barry Ward & The Voices and the Limit Singers. Throughout his life, Barry used his God-given talents to uplift and inspire others through song, worship, and encouragement.

Barry faithfully served as a pianist at various churches throughout the greater Milwaukee area and sang with numerous gospel groups over the years. His ministry through music touched countless lives, and his love for God was evident in every note he played and every word he shared.

Dedicated to spiritual growth and education, Barry earned his Doctorate from Grace Theological Seminary. He was also proud to be one of the founding members of Delta Psi Chi Fraternity.

Barry worked with many people over the course of his life and ministry, always sharing God’s Word, love, and compassion. He was a great inspiration to so many individuals and families, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Barry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rev. Dr. Benjamin Ward and Barbara Jean (Kilgore) Ward.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Linda R. (Tucker) Ward; two stepdaughters, Cherie Cunningham and Felicia McCormick; and six cherished grandchildren: Donavin Tucker, Myles Payne, Malachi McCormick, Faith McCormick, Phoebe McCormick, and Naomi McCormick.

He is also survived by two brothers, Elder Brian Kevin Ward of Covington, Georgia, and Benjamin Joshua Ward of Covington, Georgia; nieces Lyesha Ward and Jazzmia Ward of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; along with a host of great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were blessed by his presence.

Barry N Ward’s legacy of faith, music, service, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.