David Ray Ford

David Ray Ford, 82, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at Boone Hospital in Columbia, surrounded by his family. Born on November 30, 1942, to Cecil Ray Ford and Coe Ailene (Wells) Ford, David lived a life marked by faith, hard work, humor, and devotion to the people he loved.

On September 15, 1962, David married the love of his life, Marilyn Louise Baker, in Atlanta, Missouri. Together they built a strong and joyful marriage of 63 years, raising three children—Darin Ray Ford, Anthony (Tony) Ryan Ford, and April Leigh Ford—who became the center of his world.

David spent his entire career working for Norfolk Southern Railroad at the age of 19, where his grit and work ethic carried him through decades of service. He retired at age 60 after a long and respected career, leaving behind the familiar sound of trains that had been part of his daily life.

A man of strong faith, David was a longtime member of Jefferson Avenue Methodist Church in Moberly. He devoted his life to the Lord, serving Him through word and deed. His deep love of music found expression in the church choir, where his rich voice lifted hymns that inspired and comforted those around him. He also loved playing guitar, carrying on the musical traditions of his family.

In his younger years, David was a gifted athlete. He played basketball for NE Missouri St. for a year after high school graduation. He excelled as a catcher for the Moberly Ban Johnson team in the early 60’s. Later in life, he found joy in golf, fishing, cheering on the Mizzou Tigers and the St. Louis Cardinals, and above all, watching his grandchildren compete in sports.

Those who knew David describe him as kind, faithful, and joyful—always quick with a smile, a laugh, or even a playful prank. His warmth made neighbors feel like family, his humor left memories that still spark laughter, and his steady presence gave strength to everyone who knew him. He was a hero, mentor, and moral compass to his family, and his legacy is reflected in the love and character of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

David is survived by his wife, Marilyn; their children, Darin, and wife Donna of New Cambria, Mo. Tony and wife Cindy of Centralia, Mo. Daughter April of Moberly and a bonus son, Rob Clark and wife Sandra of Katy, Tx. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Nic Ford and wife Meagan of Columbia, Alec Ford and wife Katie of Moberly, Trae Ford and wife Raychel of Moberly, Jaelyn Saunders and husband Dallas of Jefferson City, Garrison Ford and Anthony Ford of Centralia, Jaren LaRue and fiancé Liz Conor of Jefferson City, Will LaRue of Jefferson City and Ashley and Ian Clark of Katy, Tx. He also leaves behind his great-grandsons: Liam, Jude, Perry, Lennox, Leo, Silas, Desmond, and Juka. Additionally, his much loved nephews and nieces and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Ford and Coe Ford, and his siblings, Jay Ford, Greg Ford and Coe Elaine Werts.

Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.