Houston Mourns Dave Ward: A 50-Year Broadcasting Legend

Legendary Houston news anchor Dave Ward passed away at the age of 86, marking the end of an era for local television. He was synonymous with ABC13, having dedicated over five decades to the station, starting his tenure in 1966 and delivering his final newscast in 2017. His consistent presence on the 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. broadcasts made him a household name.

Ward's extraordinary career was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2016, which certified him as the TV news broadcaster with the longest tenure at a single station in the same market. He was instrumental in chronicling pivotal historical events for Houston residents, including major wars and the space program, and had the distinction of interviewing five U.S. presidents.

Born in Dallas and raised in Huntsville, Ward began his broadcasting journey in Tyler before moving to Houston in 1962, where he remained a constant presence. His familiar sign-off, "Good Evening Friends," from his 2019 memoir, continues to resonate with generations of Houstonians who grew up with his trusted reporting.