Allen Fitzgerald

Ward

Allen Fitzgerald Ward Sr. was born at Mercy Hospital in Toledo, Ohio. He was the second son born to David and Elvee "Bit" Ward. Allen departed this earthly life on April 30, 2026, at the age of 58.

Known to many as "Al," he attended Macomber-Whitney Vocational Technical High School, where he participated in football, wrestling, and track while studying woodshop and carpentry. He graduated in 1986 with a strong work ethic and determination that would define his life. In 1987, Al enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and later received an honorable discharge. After returning home, he worked in various security positions before dedicating many years of service to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center as a Manager of Public Safety until health challenges eventually forced him to step away from his work.

Drawing strength from his mother, Al carried the same resilience and determination she demonstrated throughout her life. Al had a deep love for mentoring and guiding young people. Alongside his brother Willie, he coached at Rogers High School and also helped coach the Mid-City Steelers football team. Through football, he taught countless young men discipline, accountability, strength, and life lessons that extended far beyond the field.

Al met the love of his life, Vernessa, and together they built 35 years of marriage rooted in love, loyalty, and family. Family was the center of Al's world. He took pride in training his grandson, Xavier, and cheering him on in football, and he rarely missed an opportunity to support his granddaughter, Alise, in her academic achievements and dance recitals, where he was one of her biggest supporters.

Al opened his home and heart not only to his children, but also to many of their friends, offering guidance, protection, and wisdom. He believed in teaching respect, resilience, and the importance of standing up for oneself. Al provided manhood training and guided Tyrell through his academic achievements, helping pave the way for Tyrell to pursue a collegiate football and academic career.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Elvee Ward, and his sister, Connie Ward.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Vernessa; son and namesake, Allen "AJ" Ward Jr.; daughters, Shauntay King and Alyssa Ward; brothers Willie Sr. (Kimberly) and David Ward III; and sister Mamie Ward. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Xavier Lucas, Alise Handley, Renzo and Nali Grier, and Tyrell Green. He is further survived by special nephews KirkWard (Shina Ward) and Sidney Ward (Danyelle Pierce); special niece Katrina Ward (Marvin Grayes); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives were forever impacted by his presence.