Ward Whitfield

Ward Whitfield, 63, passed away August 23rd, surrounded by family and friends. Ward was born on April 13, 1960 in Monahans, Texas to Bill and Georgia Whitfield, the youngest of three children.

Ward developed an early passion for cooking and experimenting with food, a passion he kept throughout his life. A natural athlete, Ward excelled in tennis, but likely had the most fun growing up with his buddies hiking and telling funny stories. Or, you could find him with his dog at the library snuggled up reading a book, hoping they wouldn’t get caught.

Attending University of Texas-Permian Basin, Ward graduated with high honors in Finance and that set him on a career path in banking and the mortgage industry.

Ward met the love of his life, Karla K. Porter Ballard, in Clear Lake Texas where they married on November 5, 1994.

In the summer of 1998, Ward and Karla moved to Knoxville for his new position with 21st Mortgage. Those that worked closely with Ward were drawn to his leadership, intellect, his courage and determination. The work role he cherished the most was that of mentor and sharing a word of encouragement.

To know Ward was to love him. His heart was the size of Texas for his family, friends and friends that became family. Any room he entered became a brighter, happier and more interesting place. Ward was a master storyteller on one side and an intent listener on the other.

Ward captured your heart with his caring spirit and then gently cared for it. Friendships became more and more important to Ward after his retirement. He loved his decipleship group, learning to fly-fish on many of the regional rivers and definitely spending more time with Karla and their two dogs.

Ward was honored and humbled to serve as a Deacon at Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church where he and Karla are members.

Ward is survived by his loving and caring wife of 29 years, Karla: nephew and family, Clint, Mary, Crosby and Lucy Porter; sister and brother in law, Carrol and Joe Troja: mother in law, Patsy Porter; aunt, Judy Porter; and brother in law, Mike and Mary Porter.

Special thanks to David and Vickie Jordan, dear friends who have tirelessly loved and cared for Ward and Karla.

Services will be held at Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church on Monday, August 28th, 3:30pm, with Receiving of Friends immediately to follow. Reverend Mark Lampley officiating.

Remembrances for Ward can be made to the Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church for Music Ministry or Small Group Studies, 3700 Keowee Avenue, Knoxville, 37919.

Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Whitfield family and invites you to view and sign the online registry.

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