Virginia Ford
Died: February 3, 2022 | Place: London, Ontario
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Obituary
FORD, Virginia Anne
April 2, 1931 – February 3, 2022
Virginia Anne Ford passed away peacefully at home with her beloved family by her side on Thursday, February 3, 2022, after a short illness. Predeceased in 2013 by her lifelong best friend, soulmate and loving husband Robert Lyle (Bob) Ford, with whom she shared more than 58 years of marriage. Dear Mom to Craig (Debbie) of Oakville, Scott (Maurice Poon) of Toronto, Mike (Sherri) of Edmonton and Dave (Karn) Ford of Haymarket, VA. “Mom – you are the best example of a mother that anyone could ever hope for – a strong, independent role model and a loving and constant presence in our lives. You have always been an inspiration to us – your love, support and guidance will be sorely missed. We love you very much.”
Loving Nana to Rhiannon, Haeden, Madison, Aslyn, Chanel and Jordan. “Nana, we love you and will miss you.” Also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Virginia was a lifelong London resident, raised by loving parents Vic and Adele Scott who nurtured and encouraged her, and instilled values of love and constancy. Virginia was the apple of their eyes. Ginny, as she was known to her friends, graduated from Tecumseh Public School and London South Secondary School where she was active in many sports. Virginia graduated from Westervelt Business School and worked as an executive assistant at Supertest for several years until leaving to raise her family.
Virginia was accomplished at many things, from sports to hobbies and bridge. She was an avid golfer and curler at Highland Country Club where she was runner-up Ladies Club Champion and celebrated a hole-in-one. Virginia skipped her own curling teams and played on the ladies’ team that finished second in the Southwestern Ontario Finals in 1969. She loved fishing, both around the lakes at the cottage and on the South River near Sundridge. She also was very artistic, studying piano, making clothes, learning flower arranging, cake decorating, tole painting and rug making. She also authored her own cookbook. She single-handedly created a range of family heirlooms.
Virginia was a proud and dedicated lifetime member of Wesley-Knox United Church, where she married her high school sweetheart, Bob, in 1954. Christian faith was a central element of Virginia’s and Bob’s lives – she was comforted by her faith. Virginia was active in church, serving faithfully and diligently on various church committees. She, along with Bob, were especially known for helping organize the annual turkey dinners at Wesley-Knox – which have become a tradition that continues to this day. Singing with her sweetheart in the church choir was a true love of Virginia’s and she was an active member of the choir until her passing. Virginia and Bob were adult leaders of the church’s Youth Group, building it into a vibrant organization that had important and long-lasting impacts on the lives of many young people, their sons included. The youth group canoe trips, car rallies and winter weekends were special highlights of their time as leaders.
Virginia’s “happy place” was the family cottage, originally purchased in 1961 with Bob’s brother Dick and his wife Isabelle. She and Bob spent many, many happy times together there with family and dear friends like the Hearn’s and the Young’s. As a testament to her independence and good health throughout her remarkable life, she continued to drive five hours from London to the cottage and back by herself right up until Thanksgiving 2021. The cottage has always been a family touchstone and there were countless, joyous times fishing, canoeing, swimming, waterskiing, sitting around the campfire and cross-country skiing. Together, Virginia and Bob instilled a deep love of the outdoors and cottage life in their four sons and grandchildren – these will stand as everlasting testaments to Virginia’s life.
The family is eternally grateful for the incredible carers at Nurse Next Door, especially Tammy, Katrina, Ashlyn, Kaitlyn and Sherrie – you have become extended family and we couldn’t have asked for better care for Mom.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, February 7 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, ON N6C 3X1. A funeral service celebrating Virginia’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 8 at 1:30 PM at Wesley-
Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London, ON N6C 1E7. Please call the funeral home between 9:00 am-5:00 pm (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation and/or service. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols.Those who are attending the service are required to be double vaccinated. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made in Virginia’s memory to Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London, ON N6C 1E7, or Brain Cancer Canada, PO Box 30007 RPO Woodbine Heights, Toronto, ON M4C 5J2. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
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Dear family. I am so deeply saddened by the loss of your mom and the great friend she was to so many of us. So many wonderful memories from Wesley-Knox and trips to the cottage at Three Legged Lake with our UCW gals from unit four. Virginia was so very proud of her family and I know she will be deeply missed by all of you. So very grateful you got to celebrate all your milestones birthdays last Thanksgiving at the cottage.Your mom lived a very full life and I’m so grateful that she left us all with so many wonderful memories.
My condolences to Virginia’s family. Although I didn’t know Virginia well, she was so kind to accept me when I started to attend WKUC with my friend Paul. My sincere sympathies to all those she touched so dearly.
Ruth Woods
I’ve only met Virginia a couple of times while spending time at the cottage with my Sister and brother-in-law . I found her to be full of life , very active and just an over all kind woman . Adrian and I upon finding out her age were in awe of her independence. Riding with her in her boat while she was driving was exciting to witness . She made me feel comfortable and included .
One thing I’ll remember of her was that she was always on point – she always had her hair done and was “ put together”, a characteristic that I found very pleasing to see
My condolences to the family
Your matriarch has gone to the Spirit World
May she now rest comfortably in the arms of her husband
Desnee T
Craig, Scott, Mike, Dave and your families.
So sorry to learn of your mom’s passing. As her obituary stated, we shared some great times in the W-K youth group and so many memorable events occurred thanks to your parents and especially your Mom’s organizing to the last detail. Even when losing a canoe to a tree in the river your Mom had a way of making it not seem so bad. Also special memories of Christmas Eve open house and carol singing while enjoying many sweet treats and cocktail weiners. Wesley-Knox was so important to her and she did so much for the church in many ways. May you be comforted in knowing that she has now been reunited with your Dad for eternity and that she touched the lives of so many people. Blessings to all of you.
We were neighbours of the Fords from 1969 til 1973. We lived at 49 Cowan Ave. Virginia Ford was always a very friendly, lovely neighbour. I’m very sorry for your loss. Bonnie and Ron Parkinson.
To Craig, Scott, Mike and David,
My family and I send our sincere sympathy to you and your families on the passing of your mother Virginia.
We always enjoyed her company and appreciated the many events, canoe trips, etc. that she and Bob
arranged for the church youth group. She was a very talented lady and will be very missed.
June, Brenda, Murray and Nancy Klassen
Dear Ford Family – our sincere sympathy is extended to all on your loss of your Mom & Grandmother.
Cherish the beautiful memories of a lady who “set the bar high” and achieved so many lofty goals.
Hugs for all – Shirley & Ross Rowe
Dear family. On behalf of the Ford Keast family, we extend our sincere condolences on the passing of Virginia. Many of us have such fond memories of Virginia and Bob over the years. May you be comforted by the rich legacy she leaves with us all.
Warmest regards, Michael
Our condolences to the Ford family. We are so sorry to hear about Virginia’s passing. It was a pleasure being Bob and Virginia’s neighbour for over 25 years. They were two of the kindest people we have ever come across.
Virginia and I would constantly touch base and catch up during one of our many “driveway chats”, she always had a keen interest in how our family was doing and where our boys were in their lives. We shared many stories and she was a pleasure to chat with and to know. Virginia was a one of a kind, good hearted sweet person. May she rest in peace.
My sympathies to Craig, Mike, Dave, Scott and families. I was really sadden to hear of your mom’s passing. I have so many good memories of her over the years. Turkey dinners, choir, being at some of those Christmas Eve parties. We used to sit together in choir and took turns helping each other out with some of the anthems. I really miss that. God Bless you all in this time and always. Helen.
I would like to send my condolences to Virginia’s family. Virginia was such a special lady and the best cook. Every snack that she brought to the church was so delicious, especially her coffee cake. We will miss her at the church.
Virginia, Bob and the boys have been a part of our lives for many years. New Years at Forest Lake Lodge was always an exciting adventure, cross country skiing on the biggest hills we could find. Fishing for trout on the South River was so peaceful and beautiful. It was a challenge to see who could catch the biggest keeper. Our kids learned to water ski at the Ford family cottage. We shared in our love of birdwatching and photographing the elusive painted trillium. For many years we attended the Grand Theatre with Virginia and Bob and took turns choosing a place to go afterwards for dessert and coffee. We’ve watched the Ford boys grow, with the love and guidance of Virginia, into amazing young, then not so young, men.
Wesley-Knox is where we met and shared so many good times and experiences. We attended all the early campouts starting in 1974, setting up our tents beside each others. So many memories that will live on forever in our hearts. Virginia was so proud of her boys and their families. We hold them close in our hearts at this difficult time. We have been so blessed to know Virginia and all her family.
Dear Ford Family,
I was the receptionist at Ford Keast for many years. It was my privilege to have known Bob and Virginia. When I started at Ford Keast, the four boys were quite young and I was able to witness what wonderful parents Bob and Virginia were. Also, I was able to see how much Bob and Virginia loved and respected each other. I have never heard an unkind word said about either of them. My heart goes out to all of the family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Bell
To Dave and the entire Ford family,
It was my privilege to spend time with Mrs. Ford when she would visit Dave and Karn in Virginia. Her friendly nature put everyone around her at ease and her kindly demeanor set the standard. She was lovely. My condolences to all. I hope you can seek consolation in knowing that she is in peace and in a better place.
So sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing. My heartfelt sympathy to Craig, Scott, Mike and David and all your families. She will be greatly missed by her Wesley Knox family. xo
Virginia I will always remember you smiling. Even the last time I saw you at the Valumart store. You were a wealth of information and Bob was a great help when I was property chair at WK united church. You loved life and it showed. Thank you God Speed
What a wonderful testimony from the family of a life well lived. Virginia will be missed by me especially in Our UCW group and the Out of The Cold breakfasts we volunteered for. She was a strong lady who will be missed very much. May her memory be a blessing.
We at Wesley-Knox will miss Virginia, she was always willing to help with fund raisers and the UCW in leadership roles. Our thoughts are with your family as you gather in this difficult time
We were saddened to read about Virginia’s passing. What an amazing person she was. We can’t help but remember fondly the Wesley-Knox youth group canoe trips, and how much in their element Virginia and Bob were. No one can forget her homemade oatmeal bread or campfire spaghetti suppers. Virginia gave us a copy of her cookbook many years ago – and it is still our go-to source for great recipes. She will be greatly missed!
Dear Scott and your family,
Rejean and I are saddened by the loss of your mother who was greatly loved, admired and esteemed by all of you. You are in our thoughts as you navigate all the emotions and memories that will flood you at this time. Scott…I add that she was blessed indeed to have you as her son! Love to all ? Line and Rejean
What a wonderfully Lady. My thoughts are with you
Sincere condolences to Virginia’s family. I’ve only known Virginia a short time, but certainly enjoyed her company playing bridge with her. She was a great bridge player which can be added to all the other things she did so well in her lifetime.
My deepest condolences to the Ford family, especially to Craig, Scott, Mike and Dave for the loss of their dear mother and also to the grandchildren for the loss of their grandmother. Virginia was a kind and loving lady and will be missed by all who knew her. She has now been reunited with her husband in the spirit world. Sorry for your loss. Rest in peace Virginia.
I was very sad to hear of Virginia’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are extended to all of her family. I have had the pleasure of working for Virginia for the last number of years and always looked forward to seeing her and her huge smile. I will truly miss not seeing her every couple of weeks.
My sincere condolences to Virginia’s family on her passing. I knew Virginia well from Wesley Knox UCW for so many years. I remember her as always cheerful and always ready to help with our UCW projects. We always had a fun day making dinner rolls for the turkey dinner. She will be very much missed in many ways.
Dear Scott and family, there really are no sufficient words of comfort when our Moms leave this world. Your Mom was a force of nature in the best possible sense – from complete domestic goddess to backwoods genius, and everything in between. What I’ll remember most about her was her devotion to her family, and her absolutely amazing love story with your dear Dad. The photos you posted in the gallery capture her spirit perfectly. I’ll always think she and your Dad looked like film stars on their wedding day : ) I’ll make a donation to Brain Cancer Canada in her memory to help other families.
Dear Craig, Scott, Mike, David and family
My family and I send our deepest sympathies on the passing of your Mom. Since our Dad, Floyd Vader purchased our cottage in 1961, the whole Ford family has been our special and enjoyable neighbours at Three Legged Lake. Virginia was a lovely and very special lady. The Lake won’t quite be the same without her.
Peter Vader and family
Thank you, Sister Virginia, for being such a warm and welcoming choir partner. We always caught up with each other every Thursday night.
You will hear a special lilt in my voice every choir practice just for you.
To the Ford Family,
I was saddened to hear about your mom’s passing. Just yesterday I was going through some albums of my mom’s (Janet Hughes nee Klue) and saw my mom in your parent’s wedding party. They worked together at Supertest (I also believe they went to Tecumseh Public School together as well). Mom so valued the lifelong friendship they had. Thinking of you all. Jayne Graham
Craig, Scott, Mike & Dave and families,
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. Her commitment, along with your dad’s, to the W-K youth group enabled many friendships and now fond memories. As well, my signed copy of her cookbook is still a favourite. May you find comfort as you celebrate her life.
Craig, Scott, Mike, Dave,
My condolences to you and your families. Your mom was so special to many at Wesley Knox. My own memories include, of course, the Christmas Eve parties – couldn’t get enough of those famous cocktail wieners. And of course youth group canoe trips. I was in your mom’s boat on several trips and I remember once we dumped the canoe in some very cold spring water. She took it all in stride and had a laugh about it later.
She will be missed.
Steve
My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the Ford family during this difficult heart breaking time. Remember to celebrate the wonderful full life your Mom had and wrap yourselves in the wonderful memories you have and your love for one another. Your mom was an amazing lady who I feel very blessed having to of met her and get to know her as well as care for her everyday day as well as meeting all of you. You all made me feel so welcome as if I was part of the family and for all of this my heart is full. Thank you……. and Virginia…. I miss you so much but I know we will meet again and when that time comes I will come find you and give you a big hug. I love you .
I met your Mom Virginia a few times over the years and it was a pleasure to meet her! I am so sorry for your loss. Sending condolences and love from my family to yours. Take Care!
Rob Wood and family
We are so sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing. She was such a strong presence at Wesley Knox UC for so many years! Both Glen and I have such fond memories of Virginia and Bob. She was always so kind and supportive. We love watching and listening to the WK choir from the pews, and it won’t seem the same without her. Blessings and peace to the whole family. Love Jane and Glen
Our condolences to you all on the loss of your mom and Nana. Virginia was a strong, adventurous woman and she and your dad were always so kind and welcoming to our family. She and Bob were true soul mates and their mutual love of the outdoors and cottage life was inspiring. We have such fond memories of weekends at the cottage, roasting marshmallows on the campfire and feeding the chippies. Our lives are richer having known Bob and Virginia, who are together once again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Hey Scott,
I was sorry to hear about your mom, and you have my condolences. Try and take care.
Liz
Scott, Maurice and Family,
My sincerest condolences for you at this time. Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. My heart goes out to you all at this difficult time.
My sincerest condolences to the entire family for this painful loss. May you find peace in knowing your Mrs. Ford is no longer suffering. Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures. It looks like Mrs. Ford lived a full and happy life– always smiling with those around her.
My condolences to the family of Virginia Ford. She was a wonderful person and will be truly missed by her Wesley Knox family
Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. Virginia, was a significant presence at Wesley-Knox. I sang Alto with her in the choir. I remember her warm welcome on my first rehearsal. She had a wonderful heart. We will miss her greatly.
Craig, Scott, Mike and Dave. What a lovely sendoff you gave your mom today at Wesley-Knox. Your heartfelt eulogies touched each and everyone of us in the congregation. You have made your parents proud.
I am so sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing. She started a Bridge Club in 1959 with 8 girls from Westervelt School and we have been playing ever since. We started playing at night with a big supper after the games changing through the years to afternoons and ice water. Sadly, I am the only one left. We all had good times sharing our children’s ups and downs, receipes and our lives. Rest in peace, Virginia.