Donald Edward Ford Jr

Donald Edward Ford, Jr., was born on May 29, 1961, in Columbus, Georgia, to Donald (Don) Edward Ford, Sr., and Ethlyn Janice (Wright) Ford. He passed away peacefully at home in Denton, Texas, surrounded by his loved ones, on October 1, 2026.

Donald grew up in Columbus, Georgia, and lived most of his life there. He graduated from Hardaway High School and Columbus College before attending Arizona State University, where he earned his master’s degree in music education.

In 1982, Donald married Paulette (Polly) Chapman Ford. Together, they built a wonderful life and raised three children: Justin, Joseph, and Lauren. Polly was his partner in all of life’s adventures, and family was always at the center of Donald’s world.

Donald worked for Communicorp, an AFLAC company, in Columbus, for 35 years before retiring and moving to Denton, Texas. Retirement gave Donald the opportunity to enjoy some of the things he loved most and to discover a few new ones. One of his favorites was pickleball, a game he took up with enthusiasm and thoroughly enjoyed.

Music, however, was always a part of Donald’s life. He had a true love of music and an incredible talent for it, especially on the trombone and tuba. Over the years, he was a musician at Holy Family Church and played in the Columbus Symphony, Columbus Community Orchestra, Bob Barr Community Band, the Cavaliers, the St. Luke United Methodist Church Wind Orchestra, the pit orchestra for the Springer Opera House, Denton Community Band, Young at Heart Community Band, Robson Ranch Big and Little Swing'n Bands, and many other jazz combos and musical groups. While in college, he even played tuba in the circus, one of the many stories that made Donald’s life so interesting.

Donald could often be found humming, whistling, or singing one of his favorite songs. There always seemed to be a tune in his head and a song in his heart.

But Donald’s greatest joy was his family. He was truly a one-of-a-kind Dad and Poppy. He coached his children’s soccer teams, attended their summer music camps, and was there to cheer them on at games, concerts, and anything they did. He proudly supported his grandchildren in all of their endeavors, loved hearing about their accomplishments, and was always there to encourage them every step of the way.

Donald had a wonderful sense of humor and was rarely without a joke, a quick retort, or a perfectly timed comment. He had a way of making people laugh and could bring a smile to just about anyone’s face. His humor and unmistakable personality will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Janice. He is survived by his beloved wife, Polly; his sons, Justin (Elizabeth) Ford of Houston, Texas, and Joseph Ford of Eagle River, Alaska; his daughter, Lauren (Freddie) Trejo of Ponder, Texas; and his grandchildren, Natalie Ford, William Ford, Jacob Ford, Grayson Ford, Ziva Ford, and Zachary Ford. He is also survived by his sisters, Diane (Jack) Awtrey, Debbie (Steve) Magner, Mary (Jimmy) White, and Trish (Glen) Giles; as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held in Denton, Texas, with a funeral and celebration of life to be held in Columbus, Georgia, at a later date. Details regarding both services will be shared with family and friends as arrangements are finalized.

Donald was one of a kind. He was a musician, a husband, a Dad, a Poppy, a brother, a friend, a jokester, and someone who never seemed to be far from a song. He gave his family a lifetime of laughter, love, music, and memories that they will carry with them always.

His song may have ended, but the music he brought into the lives of so many will continue to play.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Donald's memory be made to the Hope Lodge, Rochester MN or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/patient-lodging/hope-lodge/rochester-mn.html 

http://pancan.org/