John William Ford

John William “Jack” Ford, 75, of St. Augustine, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinsonism. A beloved husband, father, and friend, Jack will be remembered for his intellect, humor, and passionate spirit that touched so many lives.

Born on November 15, 1950, in Rantoul, Illinois, Jack was the son of the late John and Anne Ford. From a young age, he showed a deep curiosity about the world—an interest that led him to his lifelong love of history, learning, and exploration. He graduated from Clemson University in 1974 with a degree in Industrial Management and went on to earn his MBA in Finance from Western Michigan University in 1983.

In 1975, Jack married the love of his life, Betsy Cady Ford, beginning a partnership built on laughter, mutual respect, and adventure. They raised two daughters, Alexis Ford and Dayle Hauserman, of whom Jack was immensely proud. He also cherished his son-in-law, Jeff Hauserman.

A man of boundless curiosity and energy, Jack was happiest outdoors or behind the wheel. He loved golf, sailing, biking, cross-country skiing, and swimming. A collector at heart, he surrounded himself with golf clubs, sports cars, vinyl records, watches, and clocks. In retirement, he took up guitar, deepening his lifelong appreciation for music. A voracious reader of history and science fiction, Jack’s sharp mind was balanced by an equally sharp wit—he could debate serious issues one moment and laugh heartily at comedy the next.

A charter member of the Plymouth (MI) Democratic Club, Jack actively supported civil rights and civic engagement. His wishes were that any donations in his honor be made to the ACLU.

A celebration of Jack’s life was held at his St. Augustine home on November 22, 2025, surrounded by cherished friends and family. In closing, the words of the poem *Invictus* by Brian Ernest Henley resonated deeply with the spirit of Jack Ford—undaunted, thoughtful, and free.