Greensboro Legal Community Mourns Passing of Esteemed Attorney and Advocate Janet Ward Black
Greensboro, North Carolina — Victim: Janet Ward Black, 66, Founder of Ward Black Law
The city of Greensboro, North Carolina, and the broader legal community across the state are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Janet Ward Black, a respected attorney, community leader, and philanthropist, who passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the age of 66. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable era in North Carolina’s legal and civic life, leaving behind an enduring legacy of service, compassion, and justice.
Janet Ward Black was best known as the founder and owner of Ward Black Law, one of the most well-known law firms in the Triad region. Throughout her career, she built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and tireless advocacy for her clients. Her firm specialized in personal injury, workers’ compensation, product liability, and social justice cases, representing thousands of North Carolinians with fairness and empathy.
Born and raised in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Janet’s journey into law began with a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. She earned her undergraduate degree from Davidson College and later received her Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law, where her leadership and determination set her apart early on.
Janet’s legal career began at a time when few women held prominent positions in law, but her skill, intellect, and compassion quickly earned her respect statewide. Over the decades, she became a trailblazer for women in law, serving as a role model for countless young attorneys who followed in her footsteps.
Beyond her legal accomplishments, Janet was deeply committed to her faith and to giving back to her community. She served as President of the North Carolina Bar Association and was recognized with numerous awards, including the H. Brent McKnight Renaissance Lawyer Award and the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award for her outstanding contributions to the legal profession.
Under her leadership, Ward Black Law became not only a successful firm but also a platform for social impact. Janet led numerous community service initiatives, including free legal aid programs, veterans’ support projects, and public safety campaigns. Her work extended far beyond the courtroom — she believed the law was not just a career, but a calling to serve others.
Friends, colleagues, and clients have shared an outpouring of tributes since the news of her passing broke. Many describe Janet as a woman of deep faith, strength, and compassion, whose kindness and leadership touched everyone she met. Her colleagues remember her as an inspiring mentor who led by example — with grace, humility, and a steadfast belief in doing what was right.
In a public statement, Ward Black Law honored their founder’s legacy, saying:
“Janet was more than a brilliant attorney — she was the heart and soul of our firm. Her passion for justice, her love for people, and her unwavering faith will forever guide us in continuing her mission.”
Janet was also deeply involved in First Baptist Church of Greensboro, where she served in leadership roles and supported outreach programs that helped families in need. Her dedication to both her professional and spiritual communities made her one of the most respected figures in Greensboro.
She is survived by her family members, close friends, colleagues, and the many individuals whose lives she touched through her generosity and advocacy. Funeral arrangements are being handled by a local Greensboro funeral home, with services planned to celebrate her life and legacy in the coming week.
As the Greensboro community reflects on her remarkable contributions, one message resonates clearly: Janet Ward Black lived a life defined by purpose, compassion, and faith. Her work as an attorney and advocate changed lives, her leadership inspired generations, and her kindness will never be forgotten.
Though her passing has left a void, her legacy continues — in every case she fought, every life she uplifted, and every young lawyer she mentored. Greensboro and North Carolina will forever remember Janet Ward Black as a shining example of what it means to serve with heart, courage, and unwavering dedication.
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