HOUSTON — The Houston community is grieving the passing of Dave Ward, a legendary radio and news anchor who was associated with the city for more than half a century. This television star not only delivered news but also became a familiar figure, a trusted confidant, and an integral part of daily life for Houstonians.
For the Houston Astros, Ward was more than just a journalist — he witnessed the team’s history, sharing in Houston’s moments of glory and challenges. The team quickly shared a message of condolence, writing on social media:
“Today, Houston lost one of its most familiar voices. Dave Ward didn’t just deliver the news; he connected the community, and we will always remember the love he had for this city.”
Dave Ward entered journalism at a young age and quickly became an irreplaceable icon of Houston television. With his warm, authoritative voice and sincere storytelling style, he delivered accurate, objective, and relatable news to the city’s residents. Throughout his more than 50-year career, Ward kept millions of Houstonians updated on everything from politics and current events to sporting events.
More than just a broadcaster, Ward was also a storyteller for the city, documenting important moments, from natural disasters to the victory celebrations of the Houston Astros and Rockets, and even heartwarming everyday stories.
A former colleague of Ward’s shared: “Dave was more than just a host; he was an example of dedication, compassion, and love for the community. Every broadcast was a promise to the audience—always honest and always relatable.”
Ward’s image is inextricably linked to memorable moments in Houston Astros history. Fans recall him reporting on finals, legendary home runs, and emotional celebrations. His passing is a great loss not only to the media, but also to the sports community and Astros fans.
On social media, thousands of users shared memories of Ward:
“Dave Ward was the voice of Houston. Every time I turned on the TV, I knew I was being updated by the most trusted person.”
“He witnessed all of the Astros’ greatest moments. Houston will never forget him.”
These tributes didn’t stop at fans or colleagues. Local leaders, former players, and industry journalists also offered their condolences, highlighting Ward’s profound influence in shaping Houston’s community identity.
Dave Ward’s legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours of broadcast time or the news he delivered. Ward set a standard of dedication and integrity, serving as an example for future generations of journalists. His values—trust, compassion, and community spirit—will resonate for a long time, beyond the confines of the media industry.
The Houston Astros have announced they will hold a special memorial service before the 2026 season, dedicating time to honoring a man who was integral to Houston’s sporting history and community life. This will be an opportunity for players, coaching staff, and fans to remember Dave Ward as an inseparable part of the city.
A longtime fan expressed: “He wasn’t just a news reporter; he was a living memory of Houston. Every game, every news broadcast — Dave was there. Now, his voice will be gone, but his image and legacy will live on in our hearts.”
The passing of Dave Ward is an immeasurable loss for Houston and the MLB community. From the studio to the court, from everyday stories to historic moments, Ward dedicated his life to his work and community. Now, Houston and the Astros stand together, sharing their grief while remembering a legend who will forever be a part of the city’s soul.
