With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Cecil Swann Ward, 86, of Monticello, MS. He passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, at home surrounded by family. On April 20, 1939, Cecil was born to Isom Swann and Ollie Mae Ward in Silver Creek, MS. He attended Silver Creek High School and then spent his career working offshore and driving 18-wheelers across the state and country.

Cecil was a devoted family man and enjoyed spending time with family. He also loved his church, church family, and host of lifelong friends. He will be remembered as a persistent practical joker who lived to get a laugh from everyone he met. His hobbies included collecting and restoring International tractors along with old guns and knives.

He is survived by his beloved Rose Mary whom he married on March 29, 1991. He received the greatest honor of being the best father to his daughters, Ramona Neal (Jody), and Deadra "DeeDee" Barnes (Bo) and stepdaughter, Yvette Harris (James). He was given an even greater honor of being "Pop" to his six grandchildren: Jerad Neal, Layton Neal, Dillan Barnes, Dawson Barnes (Carleigh), Whitney Ott (Michael), and Morgan Speights (Chloe) and eight great-grandchildren: Keely Grayce Neal, Madalynn "Maddie" Darlene Neal, Bryson Barnes, Karcey Anne Barnes, Kyleigh Barnes, Raelan Barnes, Braylen Barnes, and Reese Barnes. Cecil is also survived by his sister, Angela Ward Garrett (Kevin) and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Cecil in death are his parents, Isom Swann and Ollie Mae Ward; sister, Alma Ilene Buffington; nephew, Ramondo Clay Buffington; and great-granddaughter, Kaelyn Louise Barnes.

He will be dearly missed by family and friends. His family was his pride and joy and his greatest role in his life was being a "Pop" to his babies. He showed unconditional love to his family and always made sure to say, "I Love You and to be careful." He was always a person you could count on and didn't hesitate to help anyone in need.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Arden Hospice for the care they showed during his final days on this side of heaven.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 3 to 8 PM at Tilton Church. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 2 PM at Tilton Church; with burial to follow in the Tilton cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Tilton Cemetery Fund.

We find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.