We are deeply saddened by the death of Dr. Allan Ward on March 31, 2021.
Dr. Ward served on the Treatment Homes Board of Directors for more than 20 years in multiple roles. He was recruited by his longtime friend Al Porter, since deceased, to join the board and also assist him with the annual Gingerbread Extravaganza. Al Porter spearheaded this holiday fundraiser to purchase Christmas presents for children in foster homes for many years. His standards for assembling the gingerbread houses were so high that few could meet them, not even Dr. Ward. So Dr. Ward assisted by transporting thousands of gingerbread houses. We revere the sweet memories.
Dr. Ward attended every Christmas party for the foster children, the anniversary celebrations and all of the picnics. He was very supportive of our mission and considered the foster children a priority.
He transitioned from active board service to the role of emeritus a couple of years ago due to failing health.
Dr. Ward was a professor emeritus of speech communication at UA Little Rock, where he worked from 1973 until his retirement in 2000. He was also the author of numerous books, including his best known work Civil Rights Brothers: The Journey of Albert Porter and Allan Ward. Published in 2014, the book is a tribute to the struggles and friendship of the two men during the Civil Rights era.
Always striving to improve civic and community life, Dr. Ward served on the boards of many non-profit organizations in Little Rock.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Helena, and his daughter. He is survived by his son, Allan Ward, Jr. of California who cared for him during the last several years of his life.
Thank you, Allan, for helping us to make a difference!! And thank you to his family for sharing Allan with us for so many years. He will truly be missed!!
We invite you to view his obituary and share your memories and leave condolences on our Facebook page.
