The community of Brackettville, Texas, is mourning the death of Richard C. Ward Jr., who passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 78. His passing has left his family, friends, and longtime community members grieving the loss of a respected veteran, businessman, and fifth-generation Brackettville resident.
Richard was born on July 1, 1948, in El Paso, Texas, and later graduated from Lovington High School in New Mexico in 1966. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, where he worked as a mechanic on Air Force One and as an Aircraft Inertial and Radar Navigation System Technician. His dedicated service earned him the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.
After his military career, Richard built a successful professional life as a computer programmer with organizations including Northrop Grumman Corporation, Texas Instruments, Motorola, and Southwest Research Institute. He eventually returned to Brackettville, where he owned several small businesses, including a garage and wrecker service.
Richard is survived by his wife, Diana; children Amanda Simmons and husband Barkley, and J.J. Guidry and wife Lauren; grandchildren Shealee Pacheco, Alli Guidry, Tre Guidry, and A.J. Dickson; great-grandson Maverick Pacheco; brother John Ward and wife Diana; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the Simmons residence, 112 North St., Brackettville, Texas. A private family burial will follow.
Richard C. Ward Jr. will be remembered for his service, dedication, and the lasting impact he made on his family and community. May he rest in peace.