James Ray Ford, 85, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo. He was born on September 18, 1940, in Lee County to the late Dewey Ford and Virgie Lee Phillips Ford.
He married the love of his life, Geneva Farris Ford, on May 30, 1959. Together they shared 67 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, love, and family. Ray and Geneva were members of Auburn Baptist Church.
Known lovingly to family and friends as “Ray,” he was known for his gentle spirit, easygoing nature, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He was a man whose life was centered around the people and simple joys he loved most. He found happiness in time spent with family, quiet days fishing, watching and identifying birds, tending to flowers, being an avid sports fan who rarely missed an opportunity to watch a ballgame, and enjoying the companionship of Jasper, the beloved dog he shared with his wife.
Ray will be remembered for his calm spirit, gentle heart, and the love he gave so freely to his family. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the flowers that bloom, the birds that visit, and the many lives blessed by his presence.
Ray is survived by his loving wife, Geneva Farris Ford; their four children, Wesley Andrew Ford, Jimmy Nathan Ford (Candi), Gena Rae Puckett (James), and LaBreeska LaShea Ford; ten grandchildren, Barry, Kayla, Geneva, Jathan, Jolie, James Michael, Alexis, Carolina, Sanura, and Terriana; and ten great-grandchildren, Amy, Ashton, Landon, Nealy, RaeLee, Malachi, Jewel, Liam, Bondi, and Cooper.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until service time Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Pegues in Tupelo.
Due to the inclement weather, the funeral service will be at 4 p.m. at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues Funeral Directors with Mr. Jerry Greene, Mr. Donny Greene, and Brother Steve Breceda officiating. Burial will follow at Auburn Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Donny Greene, Jerry Greene, Danny Baldwyn, Andy Baldwyn, Barry Ford, and Jathan Ford.
Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.
