AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Augusta County is mourning the passing of a longtime School Board member for the Riverheads District.

School officials report that John Ward passed away Saturday afternoon at his home, surrounded by family.

Ward was a three-term member of the Augusta County School Board, a dedicated English teacher at Riverheads High School, a regular school volunteer, and a pastor, who was known for his kindness, selflessness, and deep commitment to school students and staff.

School Board Chairman David Shiflett stated that Ward was deeply dedicated to his community and to every student in the division, especially those who needed extra support and care at school.