04/18/2026
In Loving Memory
Peter J. Ward
December 31, 1968 - April 13, 2026
MORRISTOWN, NY - Peter Julian Ward, 57, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on December 31, 1968, Peter was the son of Thomas and Florence (McCarthy) Ward. He grew up in Colton, NY where he fell in love with boating and sailing on Higley Flow. Peter graduated from Clarkson University and later SUNY Potsdam where he dedicated his career to education and service; making a lasting impact on his students and community.
Peter married his high school sweetheart Tracy (Ashley) Ward; together, they are the proud parents of their daughter Kelly (Jerret) Piercey, and grandparents of their beloved granddaughter, Grace.
He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Amy Mangino and her husband, Tom; his nephew and nieces Nelson, Sophie, Celia Mangino; and a host of cousins, extended family members and friends.
Peter was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Florence Ward, and his niece, Mia Mangino.
For the past 23 years, Peter dedicated himself to teaching in the Morristown Central School District, where he made a lasting impact on generations of students. He was more than a teacher — he was a mentor, coach, and steady presence who deeply cherished the young lives entrusted to his care.
Peter gave generously to his community. He served as a member of the Morristown recreation committee, coached Little League, and was always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: spending his summers on Higley Flow, boating, sailing, trying new recipes in the kitchen, strumming his guitar, and carrying on a lifelong love of music after years of playing in a band.
Peter was the kind of man who faced life’s greatest winds — even the storm of cancer — with courage, grace, and quiet strength. Anchored by the love of his family and devotion of his students, colleagues and community. Throughout his 23 years of teaching, he lived with kindness, wisdom, and heart.
Though Peter has sailed beyond our sight, the love he gave and the lives he shaped will continue to carry us forward.
Please share memories and condolences at https://www.harterfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Peter-J-Ward?obId=48162238