With hearts full of love, we celebrate the remarkable life of Paul R. Ward, Jr., who left this world peacefully on August 12, 2025, at the age of 76. A true free spirit, Paul lived with a gentle heart and a kind soul that touched everyone he met.

Born on March 9, 1949, in Newton, MA, Paul carried a lightness about him, always ready with a warm smile, a witty joke, or a helping hand. He believed in living simply, loving deeply, and finding joy in life's everyday moments, whether he was out on his next treasure hunt for relics of times gone by to sell at the barn, enjoying a holiday or family meal together, or watching his great nieces and nephew participate in activities they love, such as plays and sports. He especially loved anything basketball related, and immensely enjoyed his time coaching, during which he lived seamlessly in harmony with the world around him.

Those who knew him will remember his calm presence, his kindness without condition, and his laughter that seemed to make the world a softer place. His spirit was free yet grounded in love for his family and friends. He taught us all the beauty of slowing down and appreciating that there is so much to learn if you listen intently to people, and see the good in all.

Paul is survived by his niece Amy Mancini, her husband Kevin, and children Nicole and Madison of Framingham, MA, his niece Jessica Myshrall and her children Kaili and Kalani of Shirley, MA, his nephew Michael Myshrall of Newton, MA, niece Jill Frutkin of NY, nephew Ben Frutkin, MA and his siblings Janice Ward of Boston, MA, Peter Ward of Fredrickson, MD, Nancy Ward of Northampton, MA, and Sandra Ward of Stonington, ME, who will all carry forward his legacy of kindness and gentle strength.

Rather than mourn his passing, we invite all who loved him to join us in celebrating his life at a funeral mass at St. Bernard Parish, 1523 Washington Street, West Newton, MA on August 25th , 2025 at 10 am. Lunch and a celebration of life will occur after his burial. In honor of his giving nature, his family encourages friends to donate to the Dementia Society of America in his memory in lieu of flowers.  www.DementiaSociety.org/donate

May Paul's free spirit continue to guide us, reminding us to live gently, love openly, and cherish each moment.