Ben Ward

Ben H. Ward was born on April 15, 1941 in Dumas, AR to the union of Albeit and Daisy Ward. During and after World War II, the family moved to Oakland, CA and then to Chicago, IL.

In 1955 after graduating from elementary school, Ben desired to attend a high school with a football team. Instead, he was sent to a school without a team; Ben was miserable. Later in October 1955, the family moved to the Westside. This allowed Ben to enroll at Marshall HS. and join the football team.

After graduation, his mother wanted Ben to attend college in Arkansas. Ben desired instead to become a teacher and coach. In January 1959, as a member of the All-Area Football Team, he was noticed by Coach Kohl at Eastern Illinois University. Ben took matters into his own hands and “recruited himself” onto Eastern’s football team. Ben was also a member of E.I. U.’s Track & Field Team where his record-breaking shot-put throw held from 1963 until 1984.

After earning his degree in education, Ben returned to Marshall as a Physical Education teacher. He went on to become a winning head coach of the football, track and field and, wrestling teams. Marshall H.S. won championships in 1976, 1979, and 1980 under his leadership. Ben was also an inductee of several halls of fame including the 200 Club, Illinois H.S. Coaches, Marshall H.S. Alumni Association and, Eastern Illinois University.

In 1968, Ben was introduced to Ms. Charlene I. Reid. They were married on August 11, 1968 they became husband and wife. Ben and Charlene welcomed four children to their marriage, Tracie, Heather (Lawrence), Christopher and, Chad. Ben and Charlene also welcomed son-in-law Demetrius Lawrence and, two cherished granddaughters Hannah and, Kayla Lawrence to their family.

In 1995, Ben fulfilled a long held dream to become a member of Kappa Alpha Pi Fraternity, Inc. He willing served the community through the Chicago Heights Alumni Chapter.

Preceded in death by his wife Charlene. His memory will be cherished by his children, grandchildren, brother Curtis Brasfield and sister Glorius Robinson. Brother, Cal Ward, preceded in death. Ben will be remembered by a host of family, friends, fraternity brothers, and colleagues.