Tampa, Florida – Retired Judge Edward Harlan Ward, a distinguished member of the Hillsborough County 13th Judicial Circuit Court, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of justice, leadership, and service.
Judge Ward, who was appointed to the Hillsborough County Court by Governor Bob Graham in 1981, passed away at the age of 84.
His career, which spanned nearly two decades on the bench, was marked by his integrity and deep commitment to the legal system.
In 1986, Judge Ward was elected to the Circuit Court, where he served until his resignation in 2000.
Beyond his work in the courtroom, Judge Ward dedicated much of his life to public service, actively contributing to Bay Area Legal Services and serving on the board of the MacDonald Training Centre, an organization that empowers individuals with disabilities.
Judge Ward was a longtime member of the Florida Bar, serving for over fifty years.
He is survived by his daughter, Judge Laura Ward, who continues his legacy of service in the same Circuit Court.
Condolences have poured in from colleagues and friends, many of whom remember him as a beacon of justice and dedication.
The legal community and his loved ones will continue to honor his memory.