George M. Ward

George M. Ward, 78, of Shippensburg—formerly of Winchester, Virginia—passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, at Shippensburg Health Care Center.

Born in Miami Shores, Florida, to the late Thomas Ward Jr. and Gladys (Woods) Holbrook, George led a life defined by service, curiosity, and compassion. He rose to the rank of captain in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he supported field medics, and later became a HIPAA compliance expert for Fairfax County, Virginia.

An avid movie buff and lifelong student of history and politics, George was especially fascinated by geopolitics—so much so that he learned to speak Russian, French, and German. His eclectic interests spanned disco and ’70s rock, classic British sports cars (his beloved first “baby” was an MGB), a shared love of Harry Potter with his daughter, and caring deeply for his rescue cat, "Kat".

George’s generosity matched his wide ranging passions. He gave freely to the Wounded Warrior Project and the American Red Cross, driven by a deep concern for veterans and children facing hunger.

He is survived by his daughter, Amanda "Mandy" Ward of Austin, Texas; his brother, Thomas Ward III of Florida; and his sister, Catherine Lowery of Phoenix, Arizona.

In accordance with George’s wishes, services will be private. Professional arrangements are entrusted to Dugan Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 51 Asper Drive, Shippensburg. Those wishing to honor his memory may make contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256. Condolences may be shared at DuganFH.com.