William Vernon Ford, 94, of Arlington, VA, passed away peacefully at home on December 22, 2024. Born July 21, 1930 to Charles James and Ruth Bridges Ford in Round Hill, VA, he graduated from the University of Richmond, later earning a Ph.D. in Government from the American University. A Korean War veteran and Fulbright fellow, he began working for Arlington County in 1959, concluding his service as county manager in 1981. He served for sixty years as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the historic Ketoctin Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his wife, Patricia DeLashmutt Ford, his three brothers, and his parents, he is survived by his son, Richard Vernon Ford, his daughter, Elizabeth Ford Friend (David), and two grandsons. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Ketoctin Baptist Church, 16595 Ketoctin Church Rd., Purcellville, VA 20132. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ketoctin Baptist Church Endowment, 17765 Lakefield Rd., Round Hill, VA 20141, or a charity of your choice.
