Fletcher Ward Chastain

Mr. Fletcher ‘Ward’ Chastain, age 83, of Elberton, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026, in Brunswick, Georgia following several years of declining health.

The youngest of three, Ward was born at home in the Fortsonia Community of Elbert County on March 3, 1943, son of the late Fletcher Watson Chastain and Alvah Ola Franklin Chastain. He was a 1961 graduate of Elberton High School.

Affectionately known to many as “Papa Ward,” he was the owner and operator of Elberton Tool Company for over 55 years. Through his business, Papa Ward forged deep connections with local granite industry professionals and machine fabricators, transforming these acquaintances into lifelong friends. He was widely respected not only for his expertise but for his generous spirit, serving as a mentor to many young men starting out in the trade.

Above all, Papa Ward was a devoted family man and a faithful servant of God. As a dedicated member of the Elberton Church of God, he served in countless capacities over the years. When he wasn’t spending time with his family, working, or at church, Papa Ward could almost always be found tending the family farm in Fortsonia.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife and love of his life for over 65 years, Mary Jane Turman Chastain. He is also survived by his daughter, Melissa (Rocky) Sease of Brunswick, Georgia; his grandson, Andrew (Christina) Melton of Savannah, Georgia; step-grandson, Matthew Sease of Lexington, South Carolina; and his two great-grandchildren, Brooks Melton and Collins Melton of Savannah, Georgia.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters: Mary Alice Chastain Rousey and Carolyn Chastain Brown.

Ward’s family will receive friends on Saturday, September 12, from 10:00a.m. until 10:45a.m. at Berry Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 11:00a.m. in the funeral home chapel, and he will be laid to rest in Forest Hills Memorial Park. Officiating will be the Rev. Tim Adams, and Mrs. Tami Finch will provide music.

Flowers are accepted, and contributions may be made in his memory to Elberton Church of God, 1026 Hartwell Highway, Elberton, GA 30635, Friends Helping Friends, Inc., 1027 Micliff Drive, Elberton, GA 30635, T.J. & Friends Foundation, Post Office Box 6161, Elberton, GA 30635, or to First Baptist Church of Elberton Ramp Ministry, 132 Heard Street, Elberton, GA 30635.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. Fletcher ‘Ward’ Chastain.