James Ford Jr.

James R. Ford, Jr., 74, of Dresden, passed away on March 29, 2017, at Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, with his family by his side. Jim was born April 22, 1942, in Zanesville to the late James and Verna Thompson Ford. He graduated in 1961 from Philo High School. Jim operated Fords BP on Blue and State Streets in Zanesville from 1966 to 2002. A lot of free coffee along with free advice was given there, solving all of the worlds problems. In the early 1970s, he began Fords Towing. He loved assisting the local law enforcement and fire departments on tow calls, work which brought him many friendships that endured to today. Jim was a tough guy, but he had a heart of gold. There are numerous stories of the kindness he showed to others. Jim retired after 36 years of service to Zanesville and Muskingum County. Jim was an active member of the community, with young people having a special place in his heart. He coached many youth football and baseball teams. He was also a supporter of the Special Olympics. Jims family was his joy. He will be missed by his children, Chris Newton & Dennis Woods of Omaha, Scott & Julie Ford of Dresden, and Kelly Knox of Zanesville; his grandchildren, Ricky (Jimmy) Newton Jr. and Dustin (Michelle) Newton of Omaha, Erin (Travis) Tuck of Columbus, Cole (Katie) Ford of Fife, WA, Nick Ford of Dresden, Jody and Jil Rodgers of Dresden, Brock (Sara) Neal of Zanesville, Megan (Ryan) Moore of Blacklick, Lynn Marie Shook and Stephen Knox Jr. of Zanesville; 11 great-grandchildren; and his kitty, Furball. Friends and family may call from 2:00 - 8:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE where funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 2, 2017, with Pastor Robert Mesnard officiating. A Cremation-With-Care will take place and Jim will be laid to rest at Zanesville Memorial Park at a later date. In Jims lifetime, he was a friend and supporter all law enforcement. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to either the FOP Zane Lodge #5, P.O. Box 386, Zanesville, 43701; or the Dresden Police Cruiser Fund, 18 W. 9th St., Dresden, 43821. To send a note of condolence, visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com, follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551. Dignified and professional services entrusted to BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY.

Visitation

Saturday, April 1, 2017 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home
1271 Blue Avenue Zanesville 43701, United States

Funeral Service

Sunday, April 2, 2017 2:00 PM
Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home
1271 Blue Avenue Zanesville 43701, United States