Regis A. Ford

Obituary
Regis A. Ford, fondly known as Rege, a resident of Ft. Myers, FL, formerly of Braddock Hills, passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, on August 15, 2023, in Pittsburgh. Born on March 1, 1949, in Braddock, he was a man of wisdom, humor, and thoughtfulness, whose life was marked by significant achievements and a profound love for his family.
Rege is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Deborah S. (Austin) Ford, and their two sons, Patrick (Kara) Ford of North Carolina and Matthew (Allison) Ford of Hopewell; his four grandchildren, Austin, Collins, Sutton and Grayson; his sisters, Patricia (Bill) Ginsburg and Kathy (Jeff) Kiss and his brother, Ronald (Diane) Ford of IN and also nieces and nephews and cousins.
A 1967 graduate of St. Thomas High School, Rege began his professional journey with the Westinghouse Printing Division in Trafford. During his early career, he demonstrated his leadership skills as the volunteer coach for their women's softball team and served his country as a member of the Marine Corps Reserves. His career path led him to become a partner in the Hollywood Show Bar in East Pittsburgh in the mid-1970s, which became a premier night spot in eastern Allegheny County for many years.
Rege's commitment to community development was evident in his role as President of the non-profit East Pittsburgh Economic Development Corporation. He was instrumental in constructing the townhouse community of Shamrock Square on the site of the former East Pittsburgh High School, contributing significantly to the revitalization of the area.
In 1992, Rege turned his passion for golf into an enduring legacy by developing the Grand View Golf Club in North Braddock. With a vision of transforming Matta's Hill, also known as Cow Mountain, into a golf course, Rege invested his resources, worked with contractors, and managed numerous tasks. The course, which opened in 1996, stands as a testament to his dedication and hard work. Until his retirement due to health issues in 2007, he served as General Manager of Grand View.
Rege's contributions to the golfing community extended beyond the greens of Grand View. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Golf Course Owners Association and served a term as its President. Golf was more than just a game to him; it was his passion. He often relished in the fact that he scored his only hole-in-one on the 5th hole at Grand View.
Throughout his life, Rege was a beacon of wisdom, often offering insightful advice to those around him. His sense of humor brought joy and laughter to his family and friends, and his thoughtful nature made him a cherished presence in their lives.
Regis A. Ford was a man of many accomplishments, but above all, he was a devoted family man, a respected community leader, and a lover of golf. His life story is one of dedication, passion, and love, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Friends are welcome on Monday from 1-4pm at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 700 Linden Avenue at Cable Avenue, East Pittsburgh (412-824-8800) where a Funeral Service will be held at 4pm, followed by a Presentation of Military Honors.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Childrens' Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org.