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Richard Ford Obituary
REV. RICHARD E. FORD
Died on July 18, 2022. A resident of Heritage Hunt in Gainesville VA, Richard died of complications following illness and surgery. Born in 1937 in south Arlington, he was the oldest of Alma Davis and Carroll W. Ford's three children. He was preceded in death by his first wife Margaret Roland Ford. Richard is survived by his wife of over 30 years Betty Myers Ford; sons Richard E., Jr. (Cynthia) and Christopher R. (Laura); granddaughters Caitlyn and Chiara; and brother Louis L. (Janet) and sister Eileen. Richard loved his family deeply and felt blessed to have two granddaughters added in his recent years.
Following graduation from Washington and Lee High School, Richard graduated from the University of Richmond and then pursued graduate degrees in music and Christian education at the Louisville Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He devoted the next 50 plus years to serving God through music ministry in Baptist, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches throughout Virginia. Many people enjoyed his wonderful musical gifts of singing, directing choirs/handbells, and organ playing. As a choral music aficionado, he sang with the Fairfax Choral Society and church choirs after his retirement.
A great lover of travel abroad and learning about new cultures, Richard sought to share this with others by organizing and leading numerous tours throughout the world for over 40 years. His tours were filled with many special adventures and inspiring moments.
Richard's faith translated into humor, joy in living, and a genuine interest in others that built countless long lasting friendships. His absence will be deeply and widely felt.
In lieu of floral arrangements, Richard would want you to listen to some wonderful church music and to sing along with gusto. Burial will be private for the family. Arrangements are being handled by National Memorial Park.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date at Providence Presbyterian Church in Fairfax, VA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Ford
Nancy Roepke
September 22, 2022
I will miss knowing Richard is in this world; but rejoice that he is now walking in God´s Kingdom. I enjoyed many years of singing and playing handbells under Richard´s direction. He was a kind and caring man and I was honored to call him Friend.
Kay Woodruff
July 29, 2022
God has another great human being in Heaven!! Richard will be missed here on earth. I rejoice in his being with the saints.
Susan and Charles Brinkman
July 29, 2022
Having known and traveled with Richard and Betty are highlights in our lives. His love for music and Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; were foremost in his life and he was always ready to share that love with everyone. Rest in the Lord dear Richard and wait patiently for the day when we will all be together with Him.
Elaine Boomer
July 28, 2022
I am saddened by this news. Richard was a warm and kind man and a wonderful musician. The world is less without him. Sending the family love and hopes that warm memories will hold him close to your hearts.
Trish & Walter Putnam
July 27, 2022
Betty and Family,
We are so sad to hear of Richard´s passing. Betty, you and Richard were such a big part of our family especially Katie, as Richard´s girl Friday. Dad and I were recently talking about the many trips he and mom took with you guys.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathy and Jack Price
July 27, 2022
Our deepest sympathy to Betty, Chris, and all Richard´s family. He was always such a joyful presence and musician. He will be greatly missed!
Mickey Acock
July 25, 2022
Richard was such a special person for me for many, many years - a joy and perfectionist to work for, delight to sing with and many wonderful memories of our European choir tour, Israel, Ireland and a Mediterranean cruise. Many thoughts and prayers to all of his family. Love to all. Mickey
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