Joshua Leander Ward

Joshua Leander Ward was born on November 21, 1981 and passed away February 11, 2022. He lived his 40 years of life in the countryside of Lotus, LA, a small “used to be” town south of Provencal, LA. Joshua attended Provencal Elementary and Junior High School. He graduated from Natchitoches Central High. Joshua never married and had no children. Joshua was raised for the most part, by his grandmother, Eula Booty Ward who he helped to take loving care of her as she aged. He worked in construction and lived a simple life. His favorite things to do were his video games and spending time with his relatives. He had such a gentle nature and was a very kind hearted person. His uncles and aunts from the 10 Ward children, as well as his cousins, were a major part of his life. Joshua is survived by his mother, Barbara Bureau of New Mexico; 2 half-brothers, Robert and Travis Highbaugh of Vernon Parish; uncles, James Ward and wife Shirley Nell, Lee Allen Ward and wife Christine, Robert Ward and wife Francis, and Michael Ward; aunts, Rosa DeMille and Peggy Lindsey. He was preceded in death by his father, John Edward Ward; aunts, Joy Rodrigues, Shirley Ann Ward and Inez Harwell. There are still 6 of those 9 aunts and uncles left to mourn and remember him, as well as plenty of cousins. He will be greatly missed. Visitation will be Saturday, February 19, 2022 from 10 am until service time at 11 am at Bellwood Baptist Church. Bro. Roger Matkin will officiate the memorial service with a eulogy given by his cousin, Rebekah Sauvé. Burial will follow at Bellwood Cemetery. The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers and condolences. A special “Thank You” to Michael Sanders for his valiant effort to save Joshua’s life! Also, to Ms. Elizabeth Metoyer for basically saving his cousin Marcus’ life. We also wish to thank the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Departments, the EMT’s and all that responded to the horrific event. May God bless you all. In lieu of flowers, donations in Josh’s name may be made to Bellwood Baptist Church or to the Bellwood Cemetery Association.