M. Ward Boyd

M. Ward Boyd, 97, of Robinson, IL, died Friday, December 24, 2021, at Carle Richland Long Term Care in Olney, IL. He was born May 3, 1924, in Robinson, the son of John V. & Myrl (Walters) Boyd, both of whom preceded him in death. He married Deloris Doree Reynolds on August 27, 1944, and she preceded him in death on April 15, 2020. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Loyal Boyd and Harold Boyd. He is survived by his sons & daughters-in-law, David & Patti Boyd (Derby, IA), Wayne & Debi Boyd (Robinson, IL), and Philip & Ann Boyd (Olney, IL); and by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He grew up in Robinson until his father found work in Noble, IL, and it was here that Ward would graduate from high school. From an early age, it was apparent that he was deeply intelligent. It came as no surprise then that, as a young man, he aspired to become a doctor. However, at the age of 18, he decided to aid the war effort by becoming a dairy farmer. By the time he hung up his farming boots, he was milking 40 head of cattle a day! It was then that he began working for himself as a carpenter full-time. He truly enjoyed carpentry and would do so until his eyesight failed him just a few years ago. A man of deep faith, Ward was a longtime member of the Otterbein United Methodist Church and also served on the board of directors of Wabash Valley Youth for Christ. This organization was particularly close to his heart, as it has given countless area young people the opportunity to make an informed decision to be followers of Jesus. We find assurance that on Friday, Ward was met with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" A time of visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 29th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Pastor Judy Williams officiating. Burial will be in the Kirk Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to either the "Wabash Valley Youth for Christ" or to the "Kirk Chapel Cemetery", with envelopes available at the funeral home.