Richard Ford Ward Jr. was born on July 31, 1942, in Youngstown, Ohio, the eldest of five children. Youngstown shaped his values, strength, and lifelong sense of home. On December 17, 2025, Richard passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy defined by service, integrity, and love.

Richard graduated from Rayen High School in June 1960. In January 1961, he answered a higher calling and enlisted in the United States Air Force. What followed was more than a career—it was a life devoted to duty and excellence. Over 26 years of honorable service, including service during the Vietnam War, Richard rose through the ranks to achieve the highest rank attainable by an enlisted airman: Chief Master Sergeant. His advancement reflected not only his leadership and discipline, but also the deep respect he earned from those who served alongside him.

Following his military retirement, Richard continued his commitment to service and excellence through a second distinguished career. He worked for Honeywell/Lockheed Martin for 29 years, retiring in 2016, a testament to his work ethic, reliability, and dedication.

To know Richard was to know a man who believed in doing things the right way, with quiet strength and unwavering commitment. While he was immensely proud of his military service, his greatest pride lived beyond the uniform—in his family and in the lives, he touched every day.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Dickie” and “Unc,” Richard was steady, warm, and quietly funny. He built a full life in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he raised his children and made his home, yet he never let go of his Youngstown roots. Where he came from mattered deeply to him, and it showed in how he carried himself.

Richard is survived by his beloved children and grandchildren, who were the center of his life and his greatest pride: • Michelle D. Barnett, husband Seth, granddaughter Skye, and grandson Noe’ Barnett • Cameron A. Ward, grandson Dylan, and granddaughter Alexandria (Grace) Ward

He is also survived by his sister, Rev. Gwendolyn Ward-Johnson, whose faith and lifelong bond with Richard reflected shared strength, love, and devotion.

Beyond rank or title, Richard’s true legacy is how he lived. He served others not only in uniform, but in everyday moments—with consistency, humility, and care. His life stands as quiet proof that character matters, service endures, and love is the greatest measure of a life well lived.

Survived By Nieces & Nephews: Arthur R. Ward Jr. Monica S. Ward-Tyler Shawn M. Johnson Harry L. Johnson III Marlice Johnson Dawn Brown Tiara Johnson Destiny Hilson Trevon Harrison First Cousins: Brenda Williams Hardy Wafford Yvonne “Doll Baby” Harris Robert Peterson Friends Who Were Family: Thelma Hayes Larry “Hurricane” Williams Ronald “Hoop” Gibson Aaron “AD” Adair Elliott “Ham” Hamilton

Preceded in Death By: Richard F. Ward, Father Grace E. Watson Ward-Brown, Mother Arthur R. Ward Sr., Brother Edward S. Brown, Brother Verdell “Dolly” J. Brown, Sister