Reverend Lester Lathan Ford

Reverend Lester Lathan Ford, a devoted servant of God and a beacon of light in his community, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on September 22, 1933, in Talladega County, Alabama, to Calvin Autry Ford and Mattie Verna Ford, Lester grew to embody the virtues of faith, selflessness, and generosity that would define his life's work.

Lester's journey as a minister began in 1953, marking the start of a lifelong commitment to the Church of the Nazarene. His unwavering dedication to his calling led him to serve numerous congregations with compassion and grace until his retirement. Even after retiring, he continued to inspire those around him with his deep faith and wisdom.

Throughout his life, Lester was a loving husband and father. He was preceded in death by his parents, his cherished first wife, Mary Imogene Ford, with whom he raised a beautiful family, and his second wife, Frances Ford, who shared in his later years. His granddaughter, Shannon Powers, and great-granddaughter, Jada Powers, also preceded him in passing, as did his brothers Autry, Clyde, Bobby, Billy, and Mac Ford, and his sister, Sue, along with his son-in-law Bruce Sheppard.

Lester's legacy lives on through his beloved family. He is survived by his daughters Sandra Sheppard, Mary Phillips (Johnny), Glenda Powers (Robert), Charlotte Kirkland, Catherine Jeffers (Ronald), and Wanda English (Jackie); his sons Lester Ford, Jr., and Joe Ford; 15 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Reverend Ford was a man of many interests and talents. He was an attendee of Holmes Baptist Church, where he continued to share his love for the Lord. His hands, always ready to serve, also found joy in woodworking, creating pieces that were as much a testament to his patience as his skill. He was also known for his love of crossword puzzles, a pastime that reflected his love for words and his ever-curious mind.

Those who knew Lester would describe him as a faith-filled man who walked the path of righteousness with humility and purpose. His selfless nature was evident in every aspect of his life, from the way he ministered to his church family to the way he cared for his family. His generosity knew no bounds, and he gave of himself freely, whether it was through his time, his wisdom, or his resources.

Reverend Lester Lathan Ford's life was a testament to the power of faith and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. He will be remembered not only for his work in the church but also for the love and kindness he bestowed upon everyone he met. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose and service, and his memory will be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Reverend Wayne Williams and Chaplain Daryl Bates officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing.

The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM, Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home.

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