Harding "Lee" Ward Jr, 84, peacefully entered into eternal rest on May 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Lee was born on September 10, 1941, in Brackettville to Harding L. Ward Sr. and Dorothy Rhea Ward, both of whom preceded him in death. As a young man, Lee accepted an enormous responsibility early in life, helping to support his mother and siblings. He worked tirelessly at whatever jobs he could find, including sheep shearing, serving as a volunteer firefighter, and truck driving to help provide for his family. Those early experiences shaped the man he became—hardworking, dependable, selfless, and deeply devoted to caring for others. Lee carried that strong sense of responsibility and work ethic throughout his entire life. He worked as a truck driver for more than 30 years, traveling across the country and taking pride in the work he did. His greatest joy came not from what he had for himself, but from making sure the people around him were cared for. Whether through a helping hand, quiet sacrifice, or steadfast support, Lee showed his love through action. Family and friends could always count on him when they needed him most.

Affectionately known to his family and close friends as "Pappa Daddy," Lee was a source of wisdom, strength, humor, and unconditional love. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. Lee gave his life to Christ many years ago and served faithfully on the Deacon Board at New Zion Baptist Church, where he continued to fulfill his life's work of serving Christ and others. One of Lee's greatest treasures in life was his girls and his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and spoke of often with pride and joy. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his family and celebrating their accomplishments and milestones.

Lee leaves behind a legacy of love with a family who loved him dearly and who will forever cherish the memories, lessons, and love he shared throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harding L. Ward Sr. and Dorothy Rhea Ward, and his sisters, Rosemary Hawkins, Cerilla Stewart, Shirley Christian, and Martha McDonald. He is survived by his daughters, Sonya Pierson, Theresia Ward, Rochelle Jowers, Penni Sumpter, and Robin Thompson (Gerald); 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Luther Ward (Lou), Clarence Ward, Douglas Ward, and Beverly Kelley (Joe); along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

His life was a testimony of faith, sacrifice, hard work, and unconditional love. Though he will be deeply missed, the love and legacy of "Pappa Daddy" will live on for generations to come.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Brackettville Sunset Funeral Home, 302 E. Spring St, Brackettville, Texas.

A Celebration of Life honoring Harding "Lee" Ward Jr. will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at 301 N. Ann St., Brackettville, Texas 78832. Interment will follow at Seminole Indian Scout Cemetery in Brackettville, Texas. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward for a repast at the Carver School Annex, 506 S. Beaumont St., Brackettville, Texas 78832.

Serving as pallbearers are Kenneth Ward, Willie B. Fielder, Melvin Davis Jr., Marvin Davis, Michael Franklin, Douglas Ward Jr., Landon Ward, and Tommy Ward. Honorary pallbearers are Adrian Loftis, Justin Ward, Douglas "DJ" Jones, Gerald Thompson Jr., Gervante Thompson, Leroy Young, and Erris Barefield.

The family of "Pappa Daddy" wishes to express sincere gratitude for every act of kindness, prayer, phone call, floral tribute, and expression of love shown during this difficult time. Your support and compassion will always be remembered.

"His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." ~ Matthew 25:23.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Oaks Funeral Homes, Del Rio/Brackettville, Texas, (830) 778-2020. Serving families with dignity and respect.