J Rex Ward was born on October 29, 1941 to Jack and Eileen (Lebeda) Ward in Caldwell, Kansas. He graduated from Caldwell High School in 1959.
J Rex joined the United States Air Force in 1963 and was active until 1969. He then went to work for Western Union, where he was employed for over 17 years. He opened Jay and Jan’s Bar in the late 70’s to mid 80’s. Then changed over to Jay and Jan’s Restaurant, with the best burger and fries around.
Even after “retiring” in the 90’s, he kept busy tinkering around on lawn mowers, washers and dryers. It was a very rare moment that he would sit and relax, as he was always finding a project to do.
He passed away peacefully at home on February 7, 2022 with his sons by his side, and his daughters in his heart. He will be deeply missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Eileen; siblings Diana, Carson, Terry and Liana.
He is survived by children, Jeff Arthur (Deb), Kari Aguilar (Jimmy), Jana Gregg, and Jasey Ward (Kevin), his brothers Monty and Jody and one grandchild.
Following cremation, memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 17, 2022 at the Caldwell United Methodist Church in Caldwell, Kansas. Inurnment will follow at Goodel Cemetery in Drury, Kansas.
Memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project and sent in care of the mortuary.
