Mr. Henry Edsel Ford

Henry Edsel Ford of Roswell, GA died December 2, 2013. He was preceded in death by his wife Rebecca Martin Ford, two brothers William and Charles Ford, and son Daniel Ford. Henry is survived by daughters Sheryl Harrison, Victoria Daniel, and Carmen Ford (Kelly Barkley), sons Robert Ford and Bob Miller (Judy). He is also survived by nieces Lynn Bellew and Patti Ford, nephew Bill Ford (Yoshiko) of Mobile, AL, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

Henry was born in St. George, SC and grew up in Mobile, AL, graduating from Murphy High School in 1949. He was awarded an athletic scholarship to Auburn University, but instead fed his love for the sea by joining the Navy to "…see the world." After serving in the Korean War on the USS Leyte in Underwater Demolition, Henry was honorably discharged with a résumé that included Electrician's Mate, Physical Training Instructor & Lifeguard, as well as Singer & Musician. He was also a Golden Gloves boxer. Through the years his work experience included jobs with the Merchant Marines, Alabama State Shipyard, Mobile Press Register, Cudahy Packing Co., and multiple jobs in retail sales and restaurant service which included Herren's Restaurant in Atlanta. Henry was also a singer on radio and television, performing all over the Atlanta area and beyond. In 1959, Henry joined the ranks of General Motors Chevrolet Division at its Lakewood plant in Atlanta, and finally retired as a night shift Superintendent many years later.

Henry was a lover of life and song in everything he did and shared his jovial personality with everyone he met. He didn't do anything halfway, and lived his life to the fullest, whistling, humming or singing all the while. To all those who provided care to Henry through these recent years, the family thanks you.

Henry's remains will be cremated, and the family will receive visitors at the Roswell Funeral Home, 950 Mansell Rd., Roswell, 30076 from 3-7 on Wednesday, December 4th, with military honors taking place at 4pm. Since Henry loved a good party, a celebration of life gathering will take place on Sunday, December 8th at The 5 Seasons North Restaurant & Brewery, 3655 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005 from 2-5. The Hotlanta Dixieland Jazz Trio will be on hand to play all of Henry's favorites. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Reef Ball Foundation, www.reefball.org or the charity of your choice.