Jerry Matthew (Matt) Ward was born June 4, 1981 in Jackson, TN the son of Jerry and Ann Hurst Ward.
Matt graduated from McNairy Central High School in Selmer. Following graduation, he enrolled in several on-th-job training programs to further his welding career, becoming a certified TIG welder for Mid-South Industries in Jackson, TN. Matt was very skilled with his hands, and enjoyed using mechanical methods and technology in his work. He was a good roofer also, and could build just about anything. Matt was an avid hunter, fisherman, gun collector, and motorcyclist. He loved his family and friends, and had a heart of gold; he would go out of his way to help others, even putting himself at risk if necessary. Matt attended the Bethesda Presbyterian Church.
Matt departed this life on October 27, 2012 in Tupelo, Mississippi at the age of 31 Years, 4 Months, 23 Days. He is survived by his parents, Jerry and Ann Hurst Ward; a sister, Molly Latham and husband Kirby; nephews Will and Mason Latham; paternal grandparents Arnold and Mildred Ward; special uncle and aunt Emmett and Lynn Hockaday, all of Selmer, TN; aunts Rosemary Rowland, Jan Ray, Janie Smith, Joanie Collins, and Jean king; uncles Billy Clyde Hurst and Billy Ward; special cousins Jessica and Sara Jo Hurst of Selmer, TN; numerous cousins, extended family, and friends.
Matt was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Clyde and Geraldine Fryar Hurst; and a cousin, Stevie Hurst.
