ULL Football Star Akkai Joseph Ward, 27, Passed Away, Leaving Behind His Fiancée, Kelli Bell, and Their Newborn, Brooklyn Armani Ward

Akkai's journey reflected his commitment to excellence, both as an athlete and a professional.

August 15, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on August 15, 2026

Akkai Joseph Ward, a former ULL football team member, passed away at the age of 27 on August 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and love.

He had recently adopted the role of parenthood alongside his fiancée, Kelli Bell, when they gave birth to Brooklyn Armani Ward on March 6, 2026.

Akkai Joseph Ward built an impressive journey from the football fields of Louisiana to a career in criminal justice.

He graduated from Brusly High School in 2016, where he excelled as a three-year starter on the football team. His talent and hard work earned him a spot in the prestigious Red Stick Army Bowl.

Moreover, his athletic prowess secured him an athletic scholarship to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), where he continued his football career while pursuing higher education.

After graduation, Akkai transitioned to community service, working with the City of Baton Rouge Juvenile Services and Detention Department. His passion for making a difference led him to Houston, Texas, where the Harris County Sheriff’s Office hired him.

His untimely passing saddened the whole community, and many remembered him in their heartfelt tributes.

Akkai Joseph Ward’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss

Akkai Joseph Ward, the son of Shenita Bynum and Alvan Ward, was born on December 23, 1997, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

His parents raised him in a close-knit family alongside his siblings, Allen Ward, Cameron Patterson, Matthew Ward, Taja Wilson, and Toi Singleton.

Akkai was a beloved son, father, fiancé, and friend who passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an unforgettable spirit.

He carried a quiet strength and a heart full of compassion from an early age.

At just five years old, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior and was baptized at St. Peter Baptist Church in Plaquemine, Louisiana, under the leadership of the late Rev. Van Smith Sr.

His faith remained a cornerstone of his life, which guided him in his love for family and others.

Akkai’s soul was truly one of a kind. Though he was a man of few words, his presence spoke volumes. His gentle spirit, warm smile, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He had a special way of bringing joy to those around him, and his memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

He leaves behind his greatest treasure, his beautiful daughter, Brooklyn Armani Ward, who will carry forward his legacy of love.

His parents, fiancée, and siblings survive him. He also shared a close bond with his grandparents, Deorlis Nelson, Joycelyn Green, and Harry Green; and his godparents, Tuesdai and Ernest Bynum Sr.

Similarly, he leaves his uncles, Ernest Bynum Sr., Corey Bynum, Kendrick Bynum, and Micah Bynum; his aunts, Ava Orange, Latoya Bynum, and Ebony Ward; his great-great aunt, Gladys Governor; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Furthermore, his maternal grandfathers, Claiborne Gordon and Elliot Nelson, and his paternal grandfather, Allen Ward Jr., preceded him in death.

The Ward family invites all who knew and loved Akkai to join them in celebrating his life. The visitation will be held on Friday, August 15, 2026, from 2 PM to 5 PM at Professional Funeral Home, 1151 Louisiana Avenue, Port Allen, LA 70767.

The funeral service will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2026, at Gloryland Baptist Church, 6745 Greenwell Springs Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70805, with visitation from 9 AM to 11 AM, followed by the service at 11 AM.

Akkai will be laid to rest at Israelite Baptist Church Cemetery, 6644 South River Road, Brusly, LA 70767.

Though his time on earth was far too short, the love he shared and the lives he touched will never be forgotten. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Akkai Joseph Ward was 6 feet and 3 inches tall and weighed around 302lbs.
• During high school, he trained in football under Marc Brown, and VarsityPreps rated him as the No. 21 offensive lineman in Louisiana.
• He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in December 2026.

• Check other Articles on

Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.

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