Thomas James Ward, age 73, of Hackettstown died Friday, September 5, 2025 at Hackettstown Regional Medical Center.  Thomas was born September 23, 1951 in Caldwell, NJ to the late Wilbur and Anne (Hojnowski) Ward.  In addition to his parent, Tom is preceded in death by his brother, Patrick Ward and his brothers-in-law Robert Markowski and Joseph Graff.

Tom was previously employed by Plumbers Local #24, Fairfield, NJ as a Master Plumber and recently received his 50 Year Membership Certificate.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Phyllis (Graff) Ward, two sons, Clinton Cummings and fiancé Cindy Lane, Scott Ward, a daughter, Maranda (Ward) Schoppert and husband John, two sisters, Mary Markowski, Ann Roberts and husband Ralph, 2 granddaughters, Lyla Rose Schoppert and Piper Leigh Schoppert, sisters-in-law, Susan Ward and Jane Graff and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, September 19 from 4-8 pm at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ.

A memorial service will be held following the visitation at 7:30 pm on Friday, September 19 at the funeral home with Rev. Grzegorz “Greg” Podsiadlo officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial & Honor Program, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 in memory of Tom.

Tom was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. He had a true passion for the game of golf and will surely miss his golf buddies and all the friends he made over the years. He also enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters, and he loved his family so very much. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. Keep all your good memories of him alive in your hearts.