Thomas Ward

Thomas (Tom) Marshall Ward, age 67, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away unexpectedly on April 17, 2025, following a recent surgical procedure.

Tom was born in Hays, Kansas, on March 2, 1958, in the heart of a blizzard—a fitting entrance for a man who stirred up joy, mischief, and love in equal measure. From the very beginning, he did things on his own terms—and he left this world the same way. When Tom was nine, his father died suddenly, leaving an irreparable hole in his family and shaping him profoundly for the rest of his life.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Kansas, then completed his medical degree at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Rock Chalk, Jayhawk! After a residency in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he became certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and practiced medicine in Little Rock for over 36 years.

A devoted family man, Tom poured his heart into his children. Whether cheering from the sidelines or beaming from the audience, he was their biggest fan—often the loudest voice and the sharpest whistle in the room. His unwavering support and heartfelt pride left no doubt about the depth of his love.

Tom was delightfully unkempt in the most endearing way. He wanted little of what the world offered: a pair of jeans, a few soft t-shirts (some cut off), sunglasses, and always Tevas with socks. His simplicity made him humble and disarmingly approachable. He gave others permission to show up just as they were. His way of being, said without words: “Come as you are—’cause I sure ain’t putting on the dog.”

He was unapologetic in his pursuit of what truly mattered: people, music that made you feel something, time in nature, and gummy bears.

Tom loved the outdoors—walking, talking, fishing. Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico, was one of his happiest places. Music was a constant throughline in his life, bridging one chapter to the next. You could hear a piece of his soul in bluegrass harmonies or Bob Dylan’s lyrics. He had a gift for inciting belly-aching laughter and was always quick to share something sweet with those he loved.

Though not traditionally religious, Tom was a deeply spiritual man with an unshakable moral compass. He spent much of his life bravely working toward sobriety, and in his later years, he found the peace and clarity he had long sought. His journey was one of courage, honesty, and redemption.

His wit and intellectual humor could dazzle—and occasionally confuse. He made space for the present moment, knowing the past and future were too often distractions. To know him was to feel something true.

He is survived by his children and their spouses: Halsey Ward Chamberlin and Mac Chamberlin, Dylan Ward and Racheal Ward, and Samuel Ward; his six grandchildren: Emerson Ward, Mays Chamberlin, Eleanor Ward, Dylan Chamberlin, Shepherd Ward, and Teddy J. Chamberlin; and his siblings: Leslie Bishop Ward, Jonathan T. Ward, and Sara Elisabeth Ward Klementis. He is also remembered by his former spouse, Cyd Ward, with whom he shared many years and a family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Leslie Ward (d.1967) and Sally Ward (d. 2012).

As he—and only he—would say: Smile, damn it! Onward.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Tom WardSunday, April 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.Calvary Baptist Church5700 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR 72207

Following the service, we’ll gather for sweets, snacks, and shared stories.

If you knew and loved our dad, we would be deeply grateful to see your face. Being together with those who knew him will bring us great comfort as we grieve and remember him.

—With love,Halsey, Dylan, and Samuel

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to share a story, memory, or fondness of Tom via the link below. We hope to collect these into a lasting tribute for his children, grandchildren, family, and friends. He was loved far and wide—and we’d really love to hear from you.

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