Pawnee — Samuel Ward Jr., 81, of Pawnee, Illinois, died Monday, March 24, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield. He was born on Aug. 1, 1943, in Springfield, the son of Samuel Patrick and Lucille Margaret Davis Ward, and lived a life full of love, family and cherished moments. He married the love of his life, Isabelle Jane Barnes, in Springfield on Feb. 18, 1973, and together they built a legacy of kindness and connection. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jane, in 2013; his daughter, Sheri Rae Miller-Ward, in 2012, who he is now reunited with in peace; two brothers, Harry and John Ward; and two sisters, Phyllis Ludwig and Shirley Stuart.

Sam was a member of Pawnee Christian Church and graduated from Mt. Auburn High School in 1961. Sam worked for Fiat-Allis for over 20 years and owned and operated S & J Radiator Repair in Springfield. He also worked at the Coffeen Power Plant in Coffeen for over 20 years. Sam was a member of the Route 66 Cruisers and the Litchfield Sportsman's Club. He loved playing golf and enjoyed snowmobiling in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and in Wisconsin.

Sam discovered his love for golf as a young man, inspired by his father — a passion he cherished for over 65 years. He relished every moment spent on the course with his close friends and his beloved sons, Troy and Todd. Together, they explored golf courses where they could enjoy the simple joy of swinging their clubs in unison.

Sam had a deep appreciation for classic cars and spent countless hours building and restoring them alongside his beloved car club friends, creating both lasting memories and beautiful machines. His love for precision extended to his time as an avid marksman, frequently enjoying the camaraderie and focus of the shooting range.

Sam found joy in traveling with his fiancé and loving companion, Cathy Acree, of Pawnee. Together, after experiencing the shared sorrow of losing their spouses years ago, they embraced life's adventures with trips to Branson, Missouri, Texas and Hawaii, creating treasured memories along the way.

Sam's life will be remembered as one filled with laughter, love and unwavering dedication to his family. May his memory continue to bring light and inspiration to those he leaves behind.

Sam was a proud father to his three sons, Tim (husband, Rick) Ward of Land O' Lakes, Florida, Troy (wife, Debbie) Ward of Waverly and Todd (wife, Connie) Ward of Springfield, who carry forward his values and memory. He adored his five grandchildren, Trista (husband, Jake) Jones of Blanchard, Oklahoma, Tanner (wife, Alex) Ward of Rochester, Allison Ward of Waverly, Samantha Ward of Rochester and Jake (wife, Alexa) Ward of Rochester, and reveled in the joy brought by his five great-grandchildren, Leonard, Gracie and Gus Jones and Jensen and Leo Ward.

Sam's family will meet friends Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. at Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee, with Rev. David Swihart officiating. Burial will be at Horse Creek Cemetery in Pawnee. Please join Sam's family at Pawnee Christian Church at 1200 Rutledge St. in Pawnee for a luncheon for friends and family following the graveside service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pawnee Christian Church, 1200 Rutledge St., Pawnee, IL 62558.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Sam Ward. Condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.