Francis Michael Ward, 81, of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.
He was born on October 29, 1944, in the Bronx, NY, a son of the late Harold Ward and Jane Cagney.
Francis was employed with the New York City Transportation Department (MABSTOA) where he enjoyed working as a dispatcher for the city.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia; son, Michael; daughter, Christina (Jim); his cherished grandsons, Luke and Jake. He also leaves behind his sister Ann, brother Thomas; nephews, Danny (Linda), Timmy and Tommy; nieces Terry and Nicole; and great niece Addyson.
There were three places Frank called home – the Bronx, Highland Mills, NY, and Brunswick County, NC.
He was very proud of his Bronx roots and the borough that shaped his early years. It was here where he met his beautiful wife of 63 years and started a family. His love for the Bronx continued even when he moved to North Carolina by having “Bronx Day” parties at the local Elks Club. He loved bringing people together.
He moved to Highland Mills, New York, where he built a life, raised his family and created decades of cherished memories.
When he retired from NYC he moved to Brunswick County, where he was affectionately called “the Mayor of Ocean Ridge.” He loved playing golf, spending days at the beach and traveling to new places.
Frank always said he had the best of the Bronx, the best of Highland Mills and the very best of Brunswick County. He said the best move he ever made was to Ocean Ridge, twenty-five years ago.
Above all else, though, was Frank’s love for his family and friends. They will carry his memory and his love with them always.
A Funeral Mass will be conducted at St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 10:00AM. Following the Funeral Mass, Francis will be inurned in the church columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Center, 1414 Physician Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401
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