Kendrick Ward

Kendrick Edward Alexander Ward of Staunton found peace on July 5, 2024, at the University Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia, while cuddling with his parents.

He was born on September 27, 2023, with a rare inborn error of metabolism called pyruvate carboxylase deficiency. Even as an infant, he didn't let that define him. He fought harder than any child should have to and constantly surpassed what the world expected of him.

Kendrick loved showing off his skills and doing things his own way. Nobody was safe from his opinions, pointer finger, or infamous side-eye. He spent his days snuggling with his family, looking at bright colors in his books, listening to his favorite songs, and admiring any lights and ceiling fans he could find. Kendrick filled his home with love and made everyone who knew him a better person.

Surviving are his parents, Caitlin and Alex Ward; grandparents, Kim Derby, Heather Durham, Warren Mullenax, Tim Thompson, and Debbie Mullenax; uncle, Zach Mullenax; great-grandparents, Sue Ward, Sue Durham, Eddie Durham, Danna Mullenax, and Gene Mullenax; dog, Charlie; and cat, Maureen. His great-grandfather, Al Ward, is showing him the world now.

A gathering of Kendrick's close family and friends tucked him into bed at Green Hill Cemetery on July 13, 2024.

The family requests anyone wishing to honor Kendrick's memory to donate to UVA, PO Box 37963, Boone, Iowa 50037. Please make checks payable to UVA Children's Sundry Gifts FCMC101 (Memo: Genetics Metabolic Clinic Population / Picnic & Medical Needs).

The family would also like to express a sincere thank you to everyone in the UVA Pediatric Genetics and NICU departments for their dedication to getting Kendrick home and happy.