James Ray Ford

Reverand James Ray Ford, 83 of Beckley, WV passed away peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones on March 11, 2026. Jim was born in Pemberton, WV on June 26, 1942. He faithfully served as a lifelong member of the community.

On August 5, 1961, James married the love of his life, Nellie Crookshank Ford, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned more than six decades. Together they built a strong family grounded in faith, love, and service to others.

Reverend Ford dedicated his life to the ministry and served as a pastor of Pemberton Baptist Church for over 50 years. Through his call, he touched countless lives-baptizing believers, performing weddings, leading funerals, and offering guidance to thousands of people in his community and beyond. His unwavering faith, compassionate heart, and steady leadership made him a pillar of the church and trusted shepherd to generations of families.

He was a man of deep conviction, who loved the Lord, his church, and his family. Reverand Ford’s life was defined by humility, kindness, and a servant’s heart. His ministry left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his wife Nellie Ford; daughter Tina Ford, his son James Ford Jr. His brother, Charlie Ford; and his sister, Relda Ford Summerell.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter Cindy Kay Ford Childs and her husband Donald “Chuck” Childs; his son Brian Lee Ford, and his wife Amand Lindsay Ford; His grandchildren James Ray Ford III, Madalyn Rae Childs and Chris Forren, Bryce Walker Ford, and Kendall Leigh Ford. He is also survived by his brother Henry Ford and his sister Faye Ford Cunningham, along with many extended family members, church family, and dear friends.

Reverend Ford will be remembered for his deep faith, loving and kind heart, and his ability to serve others without judgement, his countless lives he influenced through his ministry, his dedication to God. His church and his family leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Those who knew him and heard his message will always remember the words he often shared: “Keep looking up, because Jesus is coming back.”

“Well done, good and faithful servant...Enter into the joy of your Lord.” Matthew 25:23

Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 16, 2026, at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.

In Lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to: Pemberton Baptist Church, C/O Donald Childs, P.O. Box 891, Mabscott, WV 25871