Sammie Lee Ward, known as "S.L." was born on November 4, 1929 in Dawson, Georgia, to the late Mr. Sammie Lee Ward, Sr. and the late Mrs. Johnnie Bee Lewis Ward. He was educated in the public schools of Terrell County. At an early age, "S.L." confessed his love for Christ and joined Jerusalem Baptist Church.  Later he joined Beulahland Baptist Church in Dawson, Georgia, where he served as a Deacon for many years. He was a man who believed in prayer and the power of prayer.

On Tuesday, September 12, 2017 Sammie Lee Ward transitioned to his eternal resting place peacefully. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two children: Forrest Ward and Sherry Ann Ward Shanks; two brothers: Frank and J.C. Ward and a host of family and friends.

"S.L." obtained his license as a Funeral Director and in 1969 his dreams of becoming a funeral home owner became true. "S.L." befriended local funeral directors and they taught him the trade of funeral service.  In 2009, the Georgia Funeral Directors Association recognized him with an achievement award for 40 years of service.  He also served as a council member on the Board of Commissioners of Dawson, Georgia. He was given an award in appreciation for 9 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Ward 6 in Dawson, Georgia, from March 3, 2004 to December 31, 2013.

His memories shall be cherished by his surviving family members. To include, his wife Elmyra Whitehead Essix Ward, devoted brother: David Lee (Annie Mae) Ward, of Dawson, GA; Loving sister: Amie Lee Ward of Dawson, Georgia, loving and caring children, step-children, grandchildren, great – grandchildren, great -great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, godchildren, family, and friends.  A special friend that he considered a brother, Mr. Lawrence Williams and one he looked at as a son, Mr. Robert Eric West.  His legacy shall be forever remembered and never forgotten by all.

"Servant of God, well done!
Rest from thy loved employ;
The battle fought, the victory won,
Enter thy master's joy.
The voice at midnight came;
He started up to hear;
A mortal arrow pierced his frame:
He fell, but felt no fear.

The pains of death are past,
Labor and sorrow cease;
And, life's long warfare closed at last,
His soul is found in peace.
Soldier of Christ, well done!
Praise be thy new employ;
And while eternal ages run,
Rest in thy Savior's joy."

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