James Ward of West Chester

James Ward, 91, of West Chester, passed away on Sunday, August 12th at Neighborhood Hospice of West Chester.

Born on May 24th, 1927 in Drimboarty, County Donegal, he was the son of the late Bernard and Margaret Ward.

James was preceded in death by his Wife of 41 years, Mary “Maeve” Ward (nee Cullen) in 2000.

Beloved Father of Bernard (Jeanine), and Thomas (Allison) of West Chester, and Margaret Buffington (William) of Downingtown. Also survived by 8 loving Grandchildren, Kristin and Kevin (Brittany) Buffington of Downingtown, and James, Caitlin, Rachel, Patrick, Meghan, and Julianna Ward, all of West Chester. James is also survived by many loving cousins that were close to him.

James emigrated to the U.S. in 1951 at the age of 24. He lived and worked in the Philadelphia area initially and after a trip back to Ireland met his future wife Maeve on his return boat trip to the U.S.

After working in Alaska for a short time he travelled to New Hampshire and married Maeve.

They started a family, first living in Delaware County and moving to West Chester in 1972. He operated a bread route in Delaware County, delivering bread to residential customers for Bond Bread, and worked for Acme Markets in their distribution warehouse. He started a Landscaping business in 1969, which he successfully ran until his retirement in 1989.

James enjoyed travel, casino trips, visits with friends and relatives, Irish music, and most of all time spent with his family.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation on Friday, September 7th from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Alleva Funeral Home, 1724 East Lancaster Ave., Paoli, Pa. 19301 and Visitation Saturday, September 8th at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 1325 Boot Road, West Chester, Pa. 19380 from 9:15 to 10:15 A.M. followed by Funeral Mass at 10:30A.M.

In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions in James’ name to the Irish Immigration Center,

7 South Cedar Lane, Upper Darby, Pa. 19082

Arrangements are with Alleva Funeral Home, Inc. Paoli, PA