Terry Alan Ward

Terry Alan Ward, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, mentor, and friend, passed away on August 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined not only by an accomplished career, but by the countless lives he touched along the way.

Terry was born in Eldorado, Kansas, on July 9, 1952, to David Merle Ward and Doris Nadine Mossman. He grew up in Gallup, New Mexico, and graduated from Farmington High School in 1970.

Following high school, Terry proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Piedmont. His work as a draftsman aboard the ship proved to be a pivotal moment in his life, setting the course for the professional career that would follow.

In 1981, Terry moved to Houston, Texas, where he would make his home for the remainder of his life. For more than 45 years, he built an extraordinary career in the oil and gas industry. An accomplished Project Management Professional (PMP), Terry served in numerous leadership roles throughout his career, most notably as Director of Onshore Pipeline Services at Alliance Engineering and, finally, as Director of Project Management at Strike Construction, where he retired.

And yet, Terry would have been the first to say that his greatest legacy was never the projects he managed. It was the people. His influence extended far beyond the workplace, and many who worked alongside him considered him not simply a colleague or leader, but a mentor and lifelong friend.

But above all of his professional accomplishments, Terry considered his family his greatest achievement.

In 1981, he married the love of his life, Penny. They shared 45 wonderful years of marriage. In a recent autobiography, Terry recalled the day he first met Penny, describing her as “a beautiful blonde, kind, funny, intelligent and so friendly.” He went on to say, “From the moment I saw her, I honestly don’t remember much more about that day, other than I was pretty sure I may have died and gone to heaven: she was my welcoming angel.”

That love remained at the center of Terry's life. Together, Terry and Penny raised their daughter, Aaryn. He is survived by Penny; Aaryn and her husband, Adam; his two beloved grandchildren, Beau, 13, and Lucy, 9; and his best canine friend, a mini Aussie named Teddy. Terry often said that his grandchildren “made his heart smile with every thought.” His family was his number one priority, his greatest source of happiness, and his true pride and joy.

Terry was a devoted member of The Church at Jersey Village, and his faith in Jesus Christ guided his everyday life. Terry will be remembered for his warmth, humor, loyalty, generosity, faith, and unwavering commitment to the people he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, friendship, and, most importantly, love. The lessons he taught, the people he encouraged, and the family he cherished will carry his memory forward for generations to come.

Terry will be laid to rest at the U.S. National Cemetery in Houston, Texas. A celebration of Terry's life will be held in November. Details will be announced at a later date.