Zane Richard Ward

Zane Richard Ward, age 52, passed away on February 7, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, after a brave and courageous lifelong battle with heart disease. Zane was born on November 2, 1973, in Maricopa, Arizona. Zane lived a life defined by service, strength, and unwavering love for his family. Zane lived most of his life in New Mexico, growing up in Pecos and later living in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Although short lived, Zane fulfilled his lifelong dream of calling Texas his home after his retirement in December 2025.

Zane dedicated his career to protecting others through decades of service in law enforcement and public safety. He worked at the New Mexico State Penitentiary, Santa Fe Dispatch, Rio Rancho Dispatch, the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Department, Sandoval County Penitentiary, and the State of New Mexico as a Fire Inspector, and was a Supervisor and Pipeline Inspector for the State of New Mexico upon his retirement.

To say that Zane loved the outdoors is truly an understatement! Zane was an avid hunter, fisherman, and marksman and a devoted firearms enthusiast. A lover of good food and shared experiences, he enjoyed cooking amazing meals, experimenting with flavors, and discovering new restaurants. In all of Zane’s adventures outdoors and in the kitchen, nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his children exploring new places and making great memories. He was their number one fan in everything they did. He was a proud and loving father whose presence, devotion, and strength will be deeply missed.

Zane is survived by his wife, Rachion Unce-Ward; his mother, Cecile Ward; his children, Amanda Ward (25), Savannah Ward (18), and Luke Ward (16); his stepchildren, Terrance Unce Jr. (28), Terrell Unce (26), and Tyson Unce (24), and his bonus granddaughter Taleah Unce (4), who lovingly called him her “Papa-Z”; and many cherished family members and friends who will forever hold him close in memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Rex Ward; his brothers, Chad Ward and Tye Ward; and his grandparents, Adele and Francis Catanach, and George and Billie Rice.

Zane’s Memorial Service in Texas will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 1:00pm at DCK Outdoor Range & Training Facility, located at 16112 Bobby Rd, Manor, TX 78653.

Zane’s courage, perseverance, and unyielding spirit will forever inspire those who knew him. May his strength serve as a lasting reminder to cherish our loved ones, to persevere through life’s challenges, and to never abandon our dreams.