Mark A. Ward, Sr.

Mark Austin Ward, Sr. of Biloxi, MS passed away peacefully Monday, July 6, 2026 at his home in Biloxi at the age of 67.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Land Ward, Jr. and Barbara McMullen Ward; and his sister, Susan Ward Head.

He was born and raised in Biloxi, where he graduated from Biloxi High School in 1976, before continuing his education at The University of Mississippi where he completed his undergraduate (‘80) and law degree (‘83).

After returning to Biloxi, Mark joined the law firm of Page, Mannino & Peresich before beginning a distinguished career in public service. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in Biloxi for many years and later as an Assistant Attorney General until his retirement in 2021 after 35 years. Throughout his career, he was a dedicated advocate for victims and their families, tirelessly pursuing justice along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and across the state. He further served the community as a member of the Mississippi Bar Association, and was a member of the 2006 Leadership Gulf Coast class.

Mark is survived by his wife, Cindy Toncrey Ward; his children, Mark Austin Ward, Jr. (Andie) and Caroline Ward; step-children, Savannah Kozlowski (Brian), Garrison West, and Grant West; his niece and nephew, Adam Shaw and Amy Marks; and his granddaughters, Viviene Hardy, Carter Page Kozlowski, and Jane Austin Kozlowski.

A visitation will be held at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home in Downtown Biloxi on Monday, July 13 from 11am to 1 pm.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mark Austin Ward, Sr.