Shock and sadness was evident in the community with the sudden passing of Jerry Lee Ford, 74, of Pocahontas. Jerry left this earth to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 15, 2016.

He was born November 1, 1941, to the late Taid and Arah (French) Ford, graduated from Delaplaine High School and attended Arkansas State University. Jerry was a retired farmer and of Baptist Faith.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Janice Austin Ford, a son, Kyle Ford, a daughter, Denee (James) Johnson; Eight Grandchildren - Dylan and Jace Ford, Ashlyn and Brynlee Ellis, Megan, Katie, Jared and Jake Johnson; one great-grandchild, Luke DeClerk; one brother, Sonny Ford; one sister, Lisa (Steve) Pace and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry had many passions but among his favorites were watching his grandchildren at sporting and school events, Cardinal Baseball and tending to his farm animals.

A celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, October 18, at 2 pm in the chapel of McNabb Funeral Home, Pocahontas, with Nelson Henderson officiating. Burial will follow in Randolph Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held, Monday from 5 to 8 also at McNabb Funeral Home.

Pall bearers include Dylan Ford, Jace Ford, Barry Ford, Jared Johnson, Riley Pace, Rob Roberts, Bob French and Dennis French.

Honorary Pall bearers include Doug Moore, Bob Gates, Eggie Tedder, Glen Murphy, Shorty Fort, James Edward Ivy, Dallas Roberts and Greg Lance.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Free Will Baptist Church on Hwy 62 West, Pocahontas, AR 72455.