Matthew Ward

Matthew "Matt" Ward, a cherished soul whose gentle spirit and loving nature touched the hearts of all who knew him, passed away unexpectedly on June 9, 2026, in his beloved hometown of New Albany, Indiana. Born on January 18, 1985, Matt was a lifelong Christian and a devoted member of Park St. Church of Christ in Charlestown, IN, where his faith deeply influenced the kindness and compassion he extended to everyone around him.

Matt was more than just a friend or family member; he was a devoted son, a loving brother, a compassionate uncle, and a loyal cousin and friend. His honesty and warmth left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have shared in his life. Raised in New Albany and having attended New Albany High School, Matt cherished the moments spent with his family, holding them dear to his heart and embodying the love and thoughtfulness that defined his character.

His passions were as genuine as his spirit – a true lover of the outdoors, Matt found joy in fishing, hunting for arrowheads, metal detecting, and the simple thrill of thrift shopping and bargain hunting. These pursuits were more than hobbies; they were reflections of his fun-loving nature and his deep appreciation for life’s simple treasures.

The legacy Matt leaves behind is one of unwavering love and devotion, evident in the family who mourns his passing and treasures his memory. He is survived by his father Greg (Polly) Ward, mother Adrene "Rene" Fay Linderman, brothers Phillip Ward and Jimmy Wilson, and his extended family including uncle, Stephen Ward (Susan), uncle Glen (Rita) Ward, aunt Saundra (Bill) Bottom, and cousins Samuel (Danielle) Ward, Daniel Ward, and Dylan Ward. His nieces Courtney Chi and Kamron Ward, along with great-nephew Landon Ward and great-nieces Hannah Ward and Scarlett Chi, carry forward the love and joy he so freely gave.

Matt’s journey was shaped by the foundations laid by those who preceded him, and he is mourned alongside his deceased family members—grandfather Gene Edward Ward, grandmother Macon Ward, sister Beth Ann McFarland, brother Christopher Linderman, and grandfather William Baize—who now hold him in their eternal embrace.

To honor Matthew’s kind soul and celebrate his life, a visitation will be held on June 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southern Indiana, located at 3309 Ballard Lane in New Albany, followed immediately by a funeral service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a private family burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery. 

Though Matt has departed from this world, the legacy of his loving, thoughtful, and gentle spirit remains ever-present in the hearts of those who loved him. His laughter, kindness, and the precious memories shared will forever be a beacon of light for those he leaves behind. Matthew Ward’s life was a blessing, and his memory a treasure to all who had the privilege to know him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal love he so deeply embodied.