Dave Ward, the veteran television journalist who became one of the most trusted voices in Houston homes for more than half a century, has died at the age of 86. Ward, whose calm greeting and steady presence defined local news for generations, passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Ward’s career at ABC13 (KTRK-TV) is considered unmatched in American local broadcasting. He holds a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous tenure as a news anchor at the same station in the same city, a distinction that reflects both his longevity and the deep bond he formed with viewers.
Born David Henry Ward on May 6, 1939, in Dallas, he spent much of his childhood in Huntsville, Texas, where his father worked as a pastor. His entry into journalism began in radio while attending Tyler Junior College. Ward quickly discovered a talent for broadcasting, working as a disc jockey before advancing into newsroom leadership roles at Texas radio stations.
In 1962, Ward moved to Houston, where he became an early pioneer in local radio news. Just a few years later, in 1966, he joined KTRK-TV as a field reporter and photographer at a time when television news was still evolving. By the late 1960s, he had moved behind the anchor desk, becoming the lead anchor for the station’s evening newscasts-a position he would hold for nearly 50 years.
Throughout his career, Ward covered many of the most significant moments in Houston’s history, from hurricanes and floods to major fires and national political events. He also reported extensively on the U.S. space program, traveling to Florida to cover launches from the earliest Mercury missions through the Space Shuttle era. His work earned respect for its clarity, accuracy, and commitment to verified reporting.
Ward interviewed a wide range of influential figures, including five U.S. presidents and numerous national and international leaders. Despite these high-profile moments, colleagues often noted that his greatest strength was his ability to connect with everyday people and tell their stories with dignity.
Beyond the newsroom, Ward played a major role in community service. He helped launch Houston’s Crime Stoppers program in 1981, contributing to a format that was later adopted worldwide. His involvement with local charities and civic organizations spanned decades and included leadership and fundraising efforts for children’s charities, medical institutions, and public safety groups.
After retiring from daily anchoring in 2017, Ward remained active through special projects that highlighted Houston’s culture, history, and people. His continued presence reflected his lifelong dedication to the city he covered.
Over the years, Ward received numerous awards recognizing both his journalism and public service, including regional Emmy honors and inductions into multiple broadcasting halls of fame.
Dave Ward is survived by his wife, Laura, along with his children and grandchildren. His death marks the close of a remarkable chapter in Houston media history, leaving behind a legacy of trust, service, and storytelling that shaped local journalism for generations.
