William John Ward was born in an unnamed hospital in Belfast, Ireland on 9 April 1887.¹ He was the son of John Ward, a labourer, and Mary McCusker who were residents of 1 North Ann Street at the time. 

Giving his profession as sailor and address as 22 New Dock Street, Ward was married in Belfast’s St Mary’s Church on 26 October 1907 to Mary Hamilton (b. circa 1888), a mill worker from 19 Winetavern Street. A son named John was born in January 1909 whilst they were residents of 33 Samuel Street and William was described as a fireman. Three more children would follow: Mary in 1913, Catherine in 1915 and Rosena in 1919. 

Ward’s ship prior to Titanic had been the Glen Head. He joined Titanic at Belfast for the delivery trip to Southampton where he then disembarked. 

In later years Ward continued to work at sea but his final whereabouts remain unclear.