A memorial plaque honouring Chuck Ward's unwavering dedication to community has been unveiled at the corner of Main and Prince Edward streets. /Municipality of Brighton photo
A man remembered as a “true Brightonian” who touched the lives of many has not been forgotten.
Over the weekend, on the anniversary of his passing, the community gathered to remember and honour Charles Arnold “Chuck” Ward for his lifetime of service and a memorial plaque was unveiled on the archway at the intersection of Main and Prince Edward Street.
This was just one of the corners where Ward served faithfully as a beloved crossing guard during his retirement years.
The plaque reads: “In memory of Chuck Ward: With gratitude for a lifetime of service that helped make Brighton a better and safer community.”
As previously reported, Ward passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 79. There were several touching tributes last year following his passing, which rallied first-responders, youth, school staff, council, colleagues, and more.
Municipal officials said the plaque and dedication reflects his many years and roles that Ward took on over the decades in service of his community.
His public service started initially as a councillor for the former Town of Brighton and continued following the amalgamation of the municipality.
After his career in politics and sales, in 2017 Ward went on to serve as a crossing guard in Smithfield and at the Main Street corner.
He was also one of the first original members of the fire service board before amalgamation and was described as a huge supporter of the team. Among his success stories over the years, he was instrumental in the push to provide the Brighton Fire and Rescue team and community with defibrillators.
“Chuck was a true pillar of the Brighton community who touched the lives of many, often through a simple wave, a smile or a moment of kindness in passing,” said the municipality, following the dedication over the weekend. “We hope this plaque will help preserve his legacy and serve as a lasting reminder of the care, commitment and kindness he shared with our community.”
Kids that the lifelong Gosport resident helped safely escort to school, and his colleagues over the years remember Ward as a jolly, kind soul who had an iconic smile and wave – and someone who simply adored his crossing guard post. He somehow always had treats at the ready, too – even for pets.
Mayor Brian Ostrander served his first term of council with Ward.
“I admired his calm demeanor and good-natured humour,” said Ostrander, following his passing, while adding he also always took great care in decisions for Brighton’s best interest and called him a faithful servant always eager to help others.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
