W. D. was born on April 7, 1892, and married Melvina L. (Inman) on August 1, 1914. He owned and operated W. D. Ward Auto Parts (later Ward & Son Auto Parts) which became the oldest auto parts dearler in Knoxville by the time of his death on August 11, 1976. He is buried in the Stock Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Wesley G. Morgan, Ph.D.