Donald A. Ford died on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born in Canton, Illinois, to Aubury L. Ford and Betty Jane Ford, and grew up in Smithfield, Illinois.

Known his whole life as "Doc", he joined the U.S. Navy out of high school and served aboard the ship USS Great Sitkin in the 1960's. During this time, Doc married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Berry, and started a family.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Doc worked as a welder for the Ohio River Company. He then worked for International Harvester in Canton, Illinois. Upon the closure of International Harvester, Doc moved his family to Texas and worked as a ranch manager and farrier. He made many friends as he traveled around south-central Texas taking care of their horses. International Harvester became Navastar in the 1990's, so Doc was able to accept his former position with the company.

He and Pat moved to Indiana so Doc could resume work. They lived at the Lake Santee community and made many friends while fishing, boating, and cooking out. Doc retired from Navastar, holding a leadership position for UAW, and he and Pat moved back to Texas to be near their sons and grandchildren.

Upon the death of Pat in 2017, Doc moved to the Tudyk ranch in Pleasanton, Texas, to enjoy his horses, driving the tractor and clearing brush. He met and married Sandra Champaign of Jourdanton. Doc spent his time traveling a bit, working at the ranch, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Doc is preceded in death by his parents, Aubury and Betty Ford, his wife Patricia A. Ford, and his sisters Judith Tarter and Sandra Pigg.

He is survived by his wife Sandra Ford, his sons and daughters-in-law Tim and Felice Ford, and Chad and Jennifer Ford. Also surviving are Doc's grandchildren Carson, Connor, Aubrey and Remington Ford. Doc's brother, Vernon Ford survives him, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be private at a later date. Doc will be interred at the Fore Cemetery in Williamson County, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.