Mr. Milton Ward, loved by a host of family and friends. departed this life on January 12, 2026. Family visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Lucas Memorial Chapel 9010 Garfield Blvd. Garfield Hts., Ohio. The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 23rd, 2026 at the same location and the family will receive friends one-half hour prior to service.  Live Streaming will be available at lucasfuneralhome.com. Funeral Arrangements entrusted to The Lucas Memorial Chapel. Interment at Lakeview Cemetery.

Obituary

Milton A. Ward Sr. was born to Edward Nichols and Susie Ward on Friday, March 24, 1939, in Greenville, Mississippi. He often joked that he was born so far south that if he took a step back, he’d be in Mexico. Milton was the eldest of two brothers.

In his early years, his family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended East Technical High School and Cuyahoga Community College, studying photography and photojournalism.

Milton met and married his first wife, Patricia L. Ward (deceased), in April 1960. They shared three children: Sheri Ward, Milton Ward Jr. (deceased), and Sheila Gibson (Ward).

In 1972, Milton met Gloria Robinson Ward (deceased), and the two married in April 1996. Together, they raised two children, Youlanda Dickerson (Darrell) and Arthena Robinson. Gloria was a great motivator for Milton, inspiring him to pursue his passion for photography.

Photography was Milton’s true passion. He captured many notable figures, including Halle Berry, Oprah Winfrey, Jesse Jackson, several U.S. Presidents, and numerous politicians and other prominent individuals.

Milton worked for the Fred Hanks Company until his retirement in 2001. He also served as a photographer for the Call and Post newspaper. As an entrepreneur, he founded Ward Studio 8, his own photography studio. Alongside his business partner Richard Johnson, he helped launch Kaleidoscope Magazine. Milton and Gloria played key roles in establishing the Glenville Festival, showcasing their love for community.

Known for his charming smile and quick wit, Milton had a way of brightening any room he entered. His warmth and sense of humor touched many lives, and he was beloved by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Patricia Ward and Gloria Robinson Ward; his only brother, Maxie Ward Sr.; his son, Milton Ward Jr. (Evelyn); and his grandson, Roy Ward Sr.

He leaves behind cherished memories with his daughters, Sheri Ward, Sheila Gibson (Ward), Youlanda Dickerson (Darrell) and Arthena Robinson; Grandchildren; Damien Ward (Angela), Jason Ward (Rashica), Jennifer Ward, Brittani Cain (Ryan), Albert Jordan (Andrea), Andrya Robinson, Aaron Jordan, Dahn Gibson (Eric), Andre Robinson, Ashley Jordan, Alonda Robinson, Julian Ward, Tyler Gibson, and a host of great-grandkids, nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and friends.

Pallbearers; Damien Ward, Jason Ward, Julian Ward, Albert Jordan, Aaron Jordan, and Andre Robinson.