Washington, DC, lost one of its most beloved voices this week. Derrick Ward, a veteran journalist for NBC4 Washington, passed away at 62 due to complications from cardiac arrest. Ward’s passing marks the end of an era for local journalism, as he was not just a reporter but a true chronicler of the capital’s history and soul.

Ward’s family released a heartfelt statement: “As a distinguished journalist, Derrick’s storytelling, prolific writing, warmth, and humor touched countless lives. Our children and our entire family will miss him dearly.”

Born and raised in DC’s Marshall Heights and H Street Corridor neighborhoods, Ward witnessed and reported on the city’s most pivotal moments. From living through the 1968 riots following Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination to covering the September 11 attack on the Pentagon and the DC sniper attacks, his career was intertwined with the city’s history.

After earning his degree from the University of Maryland, Ward began his career in radio journalism, working at stations like WPFW, WAMU, and WTOP. He later transitioned to television, starting at WKBW-TV in Buffalo before returning to his hometown in 2006 to join NBC4.

Known for his masterful storytelling and lyrical writing, Ward quickly became a fixture of the local news scene. NBC4 and Telemundo Washington honored his legacy in a statement: “Derrick was News4’s resident DC historian and poet. He shined when he had a pen, a microphone, or a guitar in his hands. Derrick loved serving the people of Washington through his reporting. His impact on the community will sorely be missed.”

Ward’s colleagues took to social media to share their memories of a man whose warmth and wisdom left a lasting impression.

“Heartbroken at the loss of a great friend and colleague,” wrote Mark Segraves, an NBC4 reporter. “Derrick was a brilliant writer and journalist who loved reporting on his hometown. Derrick was also a fabulous musician. R-I-P brother, we’ll take it from here.”

Investigative reporter Tracee Wilkins echoed those sentiments: “Derrick greeted everyone with a welcoming smile and a warm laugh. He was a dedicated dad, a wonderful colleague, a stellar journalist, and a gifted guitar player.”

Paul Wagner, who worked with Ward at WTOP and NBC, recalled his signature greeting: “Hey, Wags!” Wagner wrote, “It always made me smile. Derrick was always so nice to me and everyone he met.”

Even younger journalists who shadowed Ward during internships spoke of his generosity and talent. NBC4 reporter Aimee Cho shared, “I learned so much about writing, history, and life from him.”

Derrick Ward’s legacy extends beyond his journalistic achievements. He was a devoted father to his three children—Derrick Jr., Ian, and Marisa—and a musician whose love for the guitar matched his love for words.

Washington, DC, has lost more than a reporter; it has lost a storyteller, a historian, and a neighbor. As his colleagues said, “We’ll take it from here,” but Derrick Ward’s voice will remain a cherished part of the city he loved and served.