OBITUARY: RICHARD FORD - Hometown News

Richard F. Ford, 77, of Chester, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital.Born on April 18, 1947, in Steubenville, Ohio, he was the son of the late Claudius and Irene (Powell) Ford.He was a 1965 Oak Glen High School graduate and earned his bachelor’s degree in music education from Salem College in Salem, WV. Richard started his teaching career as the band director of Tyler County High School. He later moved back to Hancock County and became the Oak Glen High School band director. Richard had a deep passion for music and took pride in each student by encouraging, challenging, and motivating them.Richard also formerly worked in the executive office at Health Ways in Weirton, WV. He ended his career teaching drafting skills at Oak Glen High School. Richard was the proud business owner of Heritage Wood Crafts and Global Data Systems.He was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Chester; having served many years as an elder, deacon, and trustee. He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club in Chester, WV; the Masonic Lodge in Middlebourne, WV; and the Scottish Rite – Valley of Steubenville in Steubenville, OH.In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Deloras “Anne” (Harris) (2022); son, Richard Alexander (2018); and daughter Erin Elizabeth (1983). Richard will be deeply missed by his daughter, Stephanie (Matthew) Jones of Chester; daughter-in-law, Jennifer (Wherry) Ford of Cannonsburg, PA.; grandsons – Nikolai Jones and Mason Ford; brother – Michael (Betty) Ford; nephew Michael Ford II, and niece Jamie (Gil) Haines and their son, Gavin.Friends may visit with Richard’s family, on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 3:00 PM-7:00 PM at Arner Funeral Chapel in Chester, WV. Rev. Dan Cesene will celebrate Richard’s life, Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Arner Funeral Chapel, at 11:00 AM. Entombment will be held at Shadow Lawn Memory Gardens in Newell, WV immediately following.

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