Walter Lee Ford Jr.

Services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Freeman Funeral Home, 26 Brentwood Place, Forsyth, Georgia. Service is scheduled to be Streamed Live on our Facebook Page. Keep the family in prayer.

Walter L. Ford Jr., a man who never met a fish he didn't want to catch, or a family gathering he didn't enjoy, earned his wings and cast his final line into eternity on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at The Lodge Nursing Facility. Heaven gained a fisherman, a hard worker, and a professional laugher.

Walter was born on May 24, 1943, to the late Walter Ford Sr. and the late Bernice Inez Strong. From the very beginning, it was clear that Walter came equipped with a strong work ethic, a sharp sense of humor, and an uncanny ability to make people laugh-even when they weren't ready to.

He received his education in the Bibb County School System and went on to become a hardworking man who could fix just about anything. Plumbing, "and etc." (as Walter would probably say), were among his many mastered skills. If something was broken, Walter either fixed it-or told a funny story while pretending to.

Walter dedicated 32 years of faithful service to Pactiåv, where he retired as a Production Tech/ Machine Operator. He believed in honest work, showing up every day, and earning his rest-which he later perfected.

When he wasn't working, Walter could be found doing what he loved most: fishing. Fishing wasn't just a hobby; it was a lifestyle. Whether the fish were biting or not, Walter was happy-as long as he had a line in the water and a story to tell. He fished until he could no longer go, proving once and for all that a true fisherman never really quits.

Later in life, Walter joined New Birth Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Leon Ward Jr., where he continued to grow in faith and fellowship.

Walter leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Bobbie Ford; three sons, Timmeth Ford, Walter L. Ford III, and Ahmad Ford (Cherale); sisters, Margaret Akins and Carolyn Dunna (James); and brothers, Wilbert Ford (Sharon) and Joseph Strong (Tonya).

He is also remembered fondly by his in-laws: Juanita Henderson (Cecil), Bettye Gibson, Yvonne Appling (Keith), Christina Henderson (Alvin), and Shawn Matthews (Linda). He shared special bonds with a very devoted nephew, Charles Barnes; a devoted brother/cousin, Wilbert Ford; cousin Preston Thomas; and special sisters/friends Chuenita Cruz and Ann Dennis.

Walter's joy multiplied through his 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever remember his laughter, his stories, and his love.

Though he has reeled in his final catch and told his last joke here on earth, we can rest assured that Walter is somewhere smiling, laughing, and teaching the angels how to fish-probably reminding them they're doing it all wrong.