Rufus M. Ward, the son of Bessie Montgomery Ward and Rufus Nathan Ward, was born March 19, 1908. Following graduation from the University of Georgia, he received his law degree from Furman University in 1930.
In 1937, following legal work with Duke Power Company, he began the practice of law in Spartanburg, interrupted when he entered the Army. His military service included duty with the Military Governor of Hawaii.
Following his military discharge and practice with two older firms, Rufus organized The Ward Law Firm specializing in defense work. He quickly earned a reputation as a talented trial lawyer.
Business and civic groups, including National Bank of Commerce, Piedmont Federal Savings and Loan Association, Spartanburg Children’s Court and Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium Commission, benefitted from his service as Director.
As President of Spartanburg Bar Association, as member of South Carolina Bar Examining Board, as life member of American Law Institute and as permanent member of the Fourth Circuit Judicial Conference, he exhibited highest ethical standards.
His distinguished career came to a close on May 17, 1988.
His wife, Sara Ward, daughter of United States Judge John J. Parker, survives with daughters Sara Montgomery Ward and Maria Ward Estifania.