Obituary: Richard C. Ward Jr.

Richard C. Ward Jr., age 78, of Brackettville, Texas, passed away on Aug. 25, 2026. He was born on July 1, 1948, in El Paso, Texas.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Betty Ward. He was a fifth-generation resident of Kinney County. His great-grandfather, Sam Hutchison, was the county’s first surveyor.

Richard graduated from Lovington High School (New Mexico) in 1966. He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, and worked as a mechanic on Air Force One. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

He also earned the Air Force Commendation Medal for his service as an Aircraft Inertial and Radar Navigation System Technician with the 12th Avionics Maintenance Squadron at Phu Cat Air Base, Republic of Vietnam from Dec. 10, 1969, to Oct. 9, 1970. His commendation recognized his “professional skill and initiative” and “distinctive accomplishments,” noting that “the energetic application of his knowledge has played a significant role in contributing to the success of the United States Air Force mission in Southeast Asia.”

Following his military service, Richard had a successful career as a computer programmer with Northrop Grumman Corporation, Texas Instruments, Motorola, and Southwest Research Institute. He then returned home to Brackettville, where he owned several small businesses, including a garage and a wrecker service.

He is survived by his devoted wife Diana; his loving children, Amanda and husband Barkley Simmons of Brackettville, and J.J. Guidry and wife Lauren of Centerville; his cherished grandchildren, Shealee and husband Gabriel Pacheco, Alli and Tre Guidry, and A.J. Dickson; great-grandson Maverick Pacheco; and his brother John Ward and wife Diana of San Antonio. He will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held Saturday, Sept. 5, at 3 p.m. at the Simmons residence, located at 112 North St. (formerly Barbara’s Table), in downtown Brackettville with Pastor Y.J. Jimenez officiating. A private family burial will follow.