Joseph Blalock Ward

Joseph Blalock Ward, 55, of Newport passed away Friday October 2, 2015 at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville after a short illness. He was born in Washington, NC on June 19th, 1960 to the late Dr. and Mrs. J.M. Ward. He spent his childhood in Greenville.

An informal celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, October 24th from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at the Crow’s Nest Yacht Club in Atlantic Beach.

Joe was a graduate of Arendell Parrott Academy and East Carolina University where he received a degree in accounting. After years of working in the nursing home industry, Joe realized his dream and opened Pro Bait and Tackle in Atlantic Beach. Many lifelong friendships were formed at his tackle shop. He eventually sold his tackle business and began a new business that specialized in wiring and detailing boats. Joe was passionate about fishing, crabbing and spending time on the water. He enjoyed watching golf and Carolina Basketball. Joe was a devoted son, brother and uncle. He will be dearly missed by all.

Joe is survived by his sister, Weenonah (Nonie) W. Kinlaw and brother-in-law, John C. Kinlaw of Beaufort; niece, Mary-Stuart Ward of Morehead City; sister-in-law, Michele D. Ward of Morehead City; special cousin, Frage Brasington of Alabama; special cousin, Lee Blalock of Pink Hill, in addition to numerous other cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Stuart K. Ward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice.