Dave Ward, a broadcasting legend who became the longest-running television news anchor in the world during his remarkable 50-year career at ABC 13 Eyewitness News, has died.
Ward, who began his career as the station’s only street reporter and photographer in 1966, became a trusted voice for generations of Houston viewers. Two years after joining the station, he began anchoring weekday evening newscasts, a role that would define Houston television news for five decades.
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Known for his signature greeting “Good evening, friends,” Ward developed a unique connection with his audience, making viewers feel personally welcomed into their evening news broadcasts. His warm, personal approach to delivering the news became a hallmark of Houston television.
Whether covering natural disasters, the space program, or interviewing politicians, Ward maintained unwavering journalistic standards. Colleagues knew him for his steadfast commitment to accuracy, with his guiding principle being the consistent verification of facts.
Although many Houstonians claim Ward as one of their own, he was born in Dallas in 1939. He grew up in Huntsville and launched his broadcasting career at KGKB Radio in Tyler while attending junior college. His journey in journalism took him to Waco before he arrived in Houston in the early 1960s, where he became the first full-time reporter at KNUZ Radio.
Beyond his distinguished broadcasting career, Ward made significant contributions to his community. He played an instrumental role in establishing Houston Crime Stoppers, eventually becoming a lifetime member. His dedication to the organization was recognized in 2017 when Crime Stoppers named its new headquarters in his honor.
“I’m very proud to be associated with Crime Stoppers,” Ward said at the time. “I never dreamed there would be a building on main street, a Crime Stoppers building with my name on it.”
His community service extended beyond Crime Stoppers, including serving as president of the Houston Easter Seals Society and maintaining active involvement in several local organizations.
Ward underwent heart surgery in December 2016, and after 50 years on the air in Houston, he bid farewell to his viewers on May 2, 2017.
Known as the Dean of Houston News, Ward is survived by his wife Laura, his children, grandchildren, and countless Houstonians who welcomed him into their homes like family each evening for half a century.