Ward passed away on December 13, 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy as one of America’s most recognizable and trusted news anchors.
Ward’s remarkable career spanned more than 50 years at ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK-TV), where he became synonymous with evening newscasts and garnered widespread respect for his commitment to factual, compassionate reporting.
A Voice for Generations
Born David Henry Ward in Dallas in 1939 and raised in Huntsville, Texas, Ward began his media journey in radio before transitioning to television.
He joined KTRK-TV in 1966 as a street reporter and photographer and quickly became a fixture in Houston homes.
By 1968, he was anchoring the weekday evening newscasts, a role he would hold for nearly half a century.
Ward’s signature greeting, “Good evening, friends,” became as familiar to viewers as the city skyline itself — an expression of the warm connection he forged with audiences.
Record-Setting Tenure
During his unprecedented tenure at the same station and in the same market, Ward earned a Guinness World Record for the longest career as a television news broadcaster.
His steady presence guided viewers through major local and national events, from natural disasters and political shifts to space shuttle missions and historic moments in Houston’s growth.
Over the years, Ward interviewed five U.S. presidents, reported from abroad, and was widely credited with elevating standards of newsroom integrity and community trust.
Beyond the Anchor Desk
After retiring from daily anchoring in 2017, Ward continued to engage with the community through projects like his video podcast “Dave Ward & Friends” and special features celebrating Houston’s people, places, and stories.
He also authored a memoir that reflected on his decades in journalism and his deep connection with the region.
Colleagues and fans remember him not only for his professionalism but also for his sincerity and warmth.
A beloved local figure, Ward’s influence extended beyond television into civic life, earning honors such as induction into the Lone Star Emmy’s Gold Circle and honorary recognitions throughout the city.
Legacy and Remembrance
Ward is survived by his wife, Laura Ward, and his children.
Tributes from media outlets, civic leaders, and viewers poured in following the announcement of his death, reflecting on the role he played in shaping Houston’s news landscape and the trust he built with audiences over decades.
Houston — and the broader world of broadcast journalism — mourns the loss of a true legend whose voice will continue to echo in the memories of those he informed, comforted, and inspired.
If you’d like, I can also provide quotes from colleagues and public tributes or a timeline of his career highlights.
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