Michael (Mickey) Vernon Ward, 80, of Cornelius, N.C. passed away Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024.
Mickey was from Urbanna and moved to North Carolina to attend college at East Carolina University. While at East Carolina, Mickey met the love of his life, Jane Hoke. They were married on Nov. 27, 1966.
Mickey and Jane moved to Cornelius and became the owners of Turner Ace Hardware in Cornelius, taking over the business from Jane’s mother, Riby Hoke. They eventually opened a second store, Ward’s Ace Hardware in Huntersville.
Mickey loved swapping stories and telling jokes with the store regulars. He also enjoyed spending time with family, gardening in his large vegetable garden, playing slots in Cherokee, watching sports, and ending the day with a tall glass of Jack and Coke. Mickey was an avid sportsman and enjoyed watching, playing and coaching numerous sports. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Ann Ward; and a brother, Jerry Ward.
Mickey is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane; and their son, Thad Ward of Whitestone; and daughter, Casey Dunlap and son-in-law Robert Dunlap of Charlotte, N.C.; grandchildren, Killian Ward, Ryder Ward, Huntleigh Ward, Jane Dunlap, Audrey Dunlap; sister, Sandra Duke; and many loving nieces and nephews.
The family will have a private celebration of life at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
