Community Mourns James P. Ford: A Legacy of Love and Service

Delray Beach, Florida - The community of Niles is mourning the loss of a cherished figure, James P. „Jim“ Ford, who passed away on June 18, 2025, at the age of 94. His legacy extends far beyond family ties, reaching into classrooms, parish activities, and civic engagement that has left an indelible mark on many lives.

Born on June 23, 1930, in Holidays Cove, West Virginia, Jim was a son of John S. and Marie Behres Ford. His academic journey began in Bridgeport, where he attended St. Anthony’s grade school before graduating from Wheeling Central Catholic High School in 1948. Seeking further opportunity, Jim moved to Canton to live near his brother, Jack, and enrolled at Kent State University. He earned his Bachelor of Science in education in December 1953, followed by a Master of Science in elementary administration in 1958.

A Family Man and Educator

A significant milestone in Jim’s life was his marriage to Ann on June 15, 1953. The couple celebrated nearly 69 years of marriage before Ann’s passing on November 10, 2022. Together, they navigated numerous life’s challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of their first child, Richard “Dickie,” who died at just 15 months old while the family was residing in Germany during Jim’s military service from 1954 to 1956.

Upon returning to Ohio, Jim dedicated 31 years to shaping young minds within the Niles City Schools, primarily as a sixth-grade teacher and principal of Lincoln Elementary School. His retirement in 1989 didn’t mark the end of his connections with former students; rather, he continued to engage with his community, demonstrating his enduring commitment to education.

Throughout his life, Jim was an active member of St. Pope John XXIII Parish-St. Stephen Church since 1954. His involvement was substantial, serving on the education committee and establishing the Tuition Angel Fund to support families in need. He also took on roles in local organizations, including as treasurer for St. Stephen Boy Scout Troop 33 and as a member of the Knights of Columbus Niles Council 1681.

Legacy of Service and Community Engagement

Jim’s spirit of service didn’t stop there; he was the first president of the Friends of the Library at McKinley Memorial Library and spent years volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul retail store. His interests included reading, walking, and playing cards, and he remained active well into his 90s.

A devoted sports fan, Jim cheered passionately for the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Indians/Guardians, and the Notre Dame Irish. Family gatherings were especially dear to him, with cherished memories of holidays and vacations spent at Pymatuning and Atwood lakes, as well as wintering in Delray Beach, Florida. He is survived by seven children, 14 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom will undoubtedly hold his memory close.

Calling hours are set for September 5, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on September 6, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Pope John XXIII Parish. His burial will be at Niles City Cemetery, ensuring he rests in the community he loved.

Honoring Military Service

In addition to his educational contributions, Jim’s military service ties into a broader narrative of honor and dedication that many veterans share. The Vietnam-Era Military Personnel Records archive indicates that there are approximately 4,638,952 records from individuals who served during this time, with information about their military ranks and branches of service. While the archive does not specifically indicate service in Vietnam, it highlights the vast history tied to veterans like Jim who dedicated a part of their lives to serving in the U.S. Army during a pivotal era (Archives.com).

The National Archives also house a variety of military documents pertinent to those who served in the Vietnam War. These records provide valuable insight into the experiences of soldiers through organized groups like the U.S. Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy, each with their unique records and histories, further illustrating the personal sacrifices of veterans and the impact they have had on their communities (National Archives).

As we reflect on Jim Ford’s life, it’s clear that he was more than just a teacher or a family man. He was a cornerstone in the Niles community, exemplifying the virtues of service, commitment, and love. His memory will surely inspire generations to come.