For 26-plus years, Bishop Lee Ward served in the United States Marine Corps and the manner in which he did earned him the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award that can be bestowed upon an individual.
That fact was among many recalled by those who attended the homegoing service held for the late Bishop Ward at Pentecostal Temple Institutional Church of God in Christ last Sunday.
Mr. Ward, who was born in Abbeville, Ala. On Jan. 1, 1923, died Oct. 20. He was 97.
Bishop Ward fought in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. For nine years, he was part of the staff of three Commandants, participating in meetings with several U.S. Presidents and foreign leaders.
According to his obituary program, it was common for President John F. Kennedy and President Lyndon B. Johnson to drop Bishop Ward off in Memphis on Air Force One during his courtship with Mother Julia Scott Ward.
On June 27, 2012, Bishop Ward, who retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant, received the Congressional Gold Medal for being one of the first African-American marines (known as the Montford Point Marines) and for his contributions to history and American society.
For 42 years, Bishop Ward led Greater Harvest Church of God in Christ Ministries, which grew from the first COGIC church in 1896.
Bishop Ward leaves his wife, Julia Scott Ward; his children: Whittier (Antionette), Plattenville, la.; James Patrick, Hollywood, Fla.; Vivian Lee Ward Valentine, Memphis; Renardo (Kristina), Memphis; Reniece Ward Stevenson, Memphis; Pastor Clifton M. Brown, whom he embraced as a son; a sister, Ethel Rattray, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
