Hosie Ward

Hosie Lee Ward was deeply respected, earned through a lifetime of duty, discipline, and unwavering love for his country and his family.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio to Osbourne Ward, Sr. and Irene Wiggins-Keene, Hosie was raised in Eatonton, Georgia and later made Washington, D.C. his home, where he lived the majority of his life and built the foundation of his family, service, and community impact.
Hosie Lee Ward (age 80) passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, unwavering devotion to family, and deep commitment to others.
A proud Vietnam War veteran, Hosie served with honor and distinction. He was highly decorated, and his awards reflect real courage and real sacrifice. Most notably, he received the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device, recognizing heroism and valor in direct combat, acts performed under enemy threat with personal risk beyond what is normally expected. He also received the Purple Heart, awarded when a service member is wounded as a result of enemy action, a solemn recognition of sacrifice made in service to the nation.
His service also included the Air Medal (with multiple awards and “V” Device), Vietnam Service Medal (with a bronze service star), Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (with “60” Device), and the Aviation Badge, while serving with the 1st Cavalry Division.
After the Army, Hosie continued his lifetime of protecting others as a member of the United States Secret Service. During his service, he was assigned to President Ronald Reagan’s protective detail, a role reserved for a select few and regarded as one of the highest assignments in the Service. It was an honor few are ever asked to carry, and one he fulfilled with the same quiet confidence and discipline that defined his life. He later retired from Secret Service as an accountant after many years of dedicated work.
Hosie also valued education and preparation. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of the District of Columbia, reflecting his belief in responsibility, discipline, and building something that lasts.
Hosie was known for his larger-than-life personality and warm heart. He made everyone he met feel seen and valued. And he didn’t just talk about service, he lived it. He devoted countless hours helping fellow veterans receive the benefits they earned, guiding them through the process, stepping in when it mattered most, and making sure they received the support they rightfully deserved.
He also served his community for many years at his mother’s church, Metropolitan AME Church, delivering meals to the sick and shut-in during the holidays. At Gethsemane Baptist Church, he supported the Food Pantry, and helped provide blankets, toiletries and coats for those in need.
Hosie believed people deserved access to the world. He owned and operated Travel at Its Finest for several decades, sharing his passion for exploration with many. More than that, he made it a mission to keep travel affordable for African American families, opening doors to see the world and experience places we could only dream of.
Hosie is survived by his wife, Alice Blackmon-Ward, and his stepson, Christopher Blackmon. He is also survived by his former wife, Costina Ward. He was the beloved father of ten children, in loving order: Wanda Ward, Deon Ward, Kermit Ward, Dirk Ward, Romona Ward, Erik Smith, Danielle Ward, Courtney Ward-Smith, Yahlonda Ward, and Katlyn Ward, and a loving grandfather and great-grandfather to many. He is also survived by his sister, Carole Back, and two bonus sisters who grew up with him, Shirley Ward and Deborah Barfield.
Hosie Lee Ward will be remembered for his service, generosity, resilience, and the enduring love he had for his family and community, his legacy living on through the many lives he touched and the family he leaves behind.