Franklin Sylvester Ward III

Franklin Sylvester Ward III, 73, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in Prague, Oklahoma.

Frank was born on January 25, 1952, in Yakima, Washington, to Franklin Sylvester and Marie Grace (Royer) Ward. As a child, his family moved frequently—first to California, then later to North Dakota. At just 17 years old, Frank proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he faithfully served for several years.

Following his military service, Frank attended mechanic school in North Dakota and began working in the oil field. He lived in Ada, Oklahoma, from 1985 to 1989. In 1985, he met Ellen Rose Cedartree, and the two were married on April 2, 1993, at her mother’s home in Konawa, Oklahoma.

Frank and Ellen later moved to Shawnee, where they owned and operated a smoke shop for several years before settling in Prague in May of 1993—a place they have lovingly called home for the past 32 years.

Frank loved the outdoors, especially during hunting and fishing seasons. He took great pride in maintaining his five acres, mowing his yard, and tinkering on cars. Above all, Frank cherished time spent with his family, particularly taking them out on Stroud Lake aboard his pontoon boat. He was known as a kind and genuine man who liked everyone and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Marie Ward; his brother, John Fritsch; his sister, Kathy Anderson; and his daughter, Angela Johnny.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Ellen Ward; his children: Blaine Ward, Franklin Ward IV, Amanda Sieminski, Trevor Ward, Norman Island, Kelly Acosta, Stoney Island, Trent Island, Chasity Island, Kadence Island, and Zade Island; and his siblings: Steve Ward and wife Kathy, Marta Tricky, Tressy Heinle and husband Donnie, Darren Raan and wife Kathy, Marsha Ann Gibson, Glen Gibson and wife Patty, Tonette George and husband Ed, and Tommy Gibson and wife Trisha.

He is also survived by many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In addition, Frank leaves behind numerous friends, with special acknowledgment to Clint G., JR F., Jeff P., Sammy V., Darryl O., Jerry M., Justin F., Kim C., Bud R., Mike H., Dean B., Steve G., Cotton G and Joe E.

Frank will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.