Ward’s Custom Meat Processing, LLC

Ward’s Custom Meat Processing, LLC has long been a trusted provider of custom meat processing services for families and farmers in and around Madisonville, Tennessee, serving customers who rely on local, direct-to-consumer processing. Owner Ronald Ward built his experience over many years working on and off with the previous operation, Morgan’s Meat Processing, before leasing the facility in 2018 and continuing the business under its existing name. In 2025, an opportunity emerged to purchase the property, a critical step that would provide long-term security for what had become a legacy and family-run business. 

After encountering challenges in identifying financing for the purchase of the commercial real estate, the Ward family was referred to the Tennessee Small Business Development Center for support in connecting with a lender. Working closely with lead consultant Walt Bowman, the TSBDC assisted the family by facilitating connections with a local bank, preparing loan applications and supporting documentation, assisting with contract negotiations with the former owner, and providing guidance on LLC establishment and closing documents, including the preparation and recording of a right-of-way easement in coordination with a referral to the SSBCI/Assist TN program. 

The effort culminated in a successful closing on August 1, 2025, when Ronald Ward purchased the property with financing from Sweetwater Valley Bank. The transaction allowed the business to retain five employees, some of whom are members of the Ward family, and ensured that a vital regional service would continue operating with stability and confidence for the community it serves. 

The TSBDC’s Cleveland Center will remain engaged as the Ward family services their new loan and plans for future growth. Looking ahead, Ronald and his wife, Linda, are focused on expanding the business while maintaining the quality reputation they have worked to establish, with the goal of ensuring the next generation of their family can continue serving local families and farmers. Reflecting on the experience, Ronald Ward shared, “We could not have purchased this place without the help of Walt. The assistance we received allowed us to realize our dream of securing this business for the family.”