Roy Ward
Military officer, industry leader, and author of Letters to Margaret—a profound tribute to love, loss, and resilience.
Personal
Roy was born in Stratford on Avon and educated at Solihull School. He married Margaret on 1st January 1959. They have two children, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
His life reflects a dedication to service, excellence and making a positive impact on society through both professional leadership and philanthropic endeavours.
His first book was published in 2020 entitled "Chronicles of a 20th century man" in which he recounts incidents both amusing and serious that have shaped his life and those dear to him.
About Roy Ward
Military & Professional Career
Roy Ward enjoyed a distinguished career spanning 25 years in the army, including service in Germany, instruction at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and regimental command in Cyprus.
Retiring early from the army he held Chief Executive, Director General and non-executive Director roles in various trade and motor industry associations, including the Institute of the Motor industry with its worldwide membership. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the motor industry and road safety he was awarded an MBE in 2000.
Charitable Commitment
Beyond his professional achievements Roy has demonstrated a deep commitment to charitable and voluntary causes. He was a founder member and national chairman of the Prince Michael Road Safety Awards for ten years, an initiative dedicated to promoting road safety and recognising outstanding contributions primarily by individuals to this vital cause.
A keen gardener he was a liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners, a judge in the City of London Gardening Competitions, a trustee of Perennial the gardeners charity, and a trustee and governor of Capel Manor College.
He is a Freeman of the City of London.
Letters to Margaret
In this poignant memoir Roy shares his journey through the depths of grief after the loss of his beloved wife Margaret. Their extraordinary love story, spanning over seven decades shared love and adventure, marked by global travels and a deep and enduring bond, is brought to life through heartfelt reflections and vivid memories.
As he navigates the complexities of his loss, he explores the bittersweet nature of memory, how it both comforts and wounds, and how to find solace in the midst of despair. By reflecting on their shared experiences from their early days together to their active retirement years, he invites readers to contemplate the profound impact of love and loss.
Through a series of intimate letters addressed to Margaret, Roy reveals the raw emotions, poignant memories and unexpected moments of humour that have shaped his grieving process. He explores the challenges of adjusting to a life without her while also finding solace in the life they shared.
Through the candid story telling you'll discover the power of love, the enduring nature of memory and the resilience of the human spirit.
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Reviews
"This book is a tender and deeply moving testament to enduring love, offering an intimate window into the raw landscape of grief through Roy Ward's honest and heartfelt letters to his late wife. With sincerity and warmth, drawn from a devoted partnership which spanned over seven decades, he reflects on the silence, the ache, and the small moments of clarity that follow profound loss, while his cherished memories of Margaret shine with humour, affection, and the quiet strength born of a lifelong devotion. Though unflinching in its portrayal of sorrow, the book is ultimately illuminated by gratitude and resilience, reminding readers that while grief changes us, the love we carry forward remains a lasting source of light, comfort, and hope."
"This book is a must to read, particularly for bereaved older people. I found that there was an immediate bond between my own situation and with Roy Ward's and I quickly realised that I was not alone."
"This is the story of two wonderful people who shared everything together and remained strongly in love throughout their 66-year marriage. It's the story of a life that many strive for, but few attain. It's also a thoughtful exploration based on lived experience of the devastating grief that occurs at the end of such a story — when old age takes its inevitable toll, and one must for the first time, learn to cope in a life without the other."
"This book is quite an amazing book. Had me in tears but also there was humour. Have recommended it to everyone I know. Such an inspiration. Loved, loved, loved it"
Get in Touch
Interested in learning more about Roy's work or have a message to share? Feel free to reach out.
Email: contact@royward.co.uk