James Elliott Ford, Sr. transitioned from earthly labor to heavenly reward on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Novant Presbyterian Hospital, Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife and covenant partner of 44 years, Erma, at his bedside. James was born on October 21, 1940, in Buffalo, New York, to Frank Francis Ford, Sr. and Fannie (Rembert) Ford, the fourth of seven children; four boys and three girls. He once stated that some of his happiest years were when he and his siblings were growing up together, with both parents in the house, along with their dog. Those fond memories were exceeded only by his joyful years as a husband and father to his four children.

James matriculated through the Buffalo Public Schools system, was accepted into Hutchinson Central Technical High School, and studied an art curriculum until a family hardship necessitated him dropping out in his junior year. He completed his high school education through Buffalo Evening High School, while working a full-time job to help support his younger siblings. Up until 1961, he worked and studied part-time, at night, at Canisius College, until he received his notice of draft for the United States Army. Rather than reporting for the two-year draft, he enlisted in the Air Force for four years and faithfully served as an air traffic controller, until his honorable discharged at Truax Field, Madison, Wisconsin, in May 1965.

After fulfilling his military obligation and while working various part-time jobs, James continued his pursuit of education through study at the Wisconsin School of Electronics, University of Wisconsin School of Business, Madison, Wisconsin and University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, receiving a BA Degree in 1999 from Western Illinois University, Macomb, Illinois. James was well studied, multi-talented, and possessed many skills. He was an excellent portrait and content artist, painting with oil, acrylics and India ink.

He worked for IBM Corporation from 1967-1982 as a Senior Customer Engineer in various territories throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Northern Illinois. From 1982-1988, James was Owner and Director of Service and Sales of At Your Service, Inc., Typewriter Sales and Service; later worked for Ingersoll Milling Machines, and Pfauter-Maag Cutting Tools, retiring from the County of Winnebago as a Juvenile Detention Officer in 2001.

James met the love of his life, Erma Zachery Jenkins in the work arena when he used to service her IBM word processor, at Swedish American Health System. They united in holy matrimony on November 24, 1979, and blended and grew their family to include one son and three daughters.

James was a faithful member of Sanctuary Charlotte Church. Prior to relocating to Charlotte, he was an active member of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, having served in various capacities including, Trustee, Official Board, member of the Male Chorus, and after school tutor.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his faithful wife, Rev. Erma; daughters, Lovetta Ford, Atlanta, GA; Rev. Dr. VaNatta Ford, Williamstown, MA; a son, Rev. Dr. James (Barbara) Ford, Jr., Charlotte; daughter, VoNique (Shamarrie) Wilson, Charlotte; 9 grandchildren, Zahara, Zaddik, Zion, Zakiah Ford; Jamil, Jaren, Alaiah, Azaliah Wilson; and Satchel Ford; sister, Phillipia Glover, Buffalo, NY; brothers-in-law, Lynn (Joyce) Zachery; James Perteete; sisters-in-law Dr. Imogene Zachery, Zere Zachery, and Dr. Gloria Graham. A host of adoring nieces and nephews; and friends of over 60 years, Bill (Judy) Russell, Barbara Elvord, Bennie Mae Johnson, John (Mary) Shacklett, Phyllis Bolling, Dorothy Carter, Jewelline (Willie) Wiggins, Cathleen "Kitty" Carter and Thomas (Gracie) Grasty. Predeceased by his parents; brothers, Frank, Jr., Thomas, and Phillip Ford; sisters, Elizabeth McBeth, and Lorrine Bolden.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church 3000 Rural Street. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Local arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.