James Christy “Jim” Ford, 74

June 23, 2025

James C. “Jim” Ford, 74, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025. Born in Saxton, PA, he was the son of the late Robert Ford and Rose (Bair) Arentz. He was married 55 years to his beloved wife Dorothy C. (Katchmar) Ford.

Jim was a graduate of Tussey High School and received an associate’s degree in masonry from Thaddeus Stevens Trade College. He worked for over 25 years with Kerr Glass, later worked at NTN-BCA, and most recently at M&M Mars. He was a devout Catholic and attended St. John Neumann for the last 40 years. He was also a former member of St. Anne’s and 1st Church of God. A dedicated husband, father and grandfather, Jim always showed up and was available to anyone who needed him. Never missing a game, recital or extracurricular activity for his children or grandchildren. Showing an active interest in what was important to them. He became their biggest fan. He coached his children and many other athletes through St. Anne’s and Manheim Township sports. Jim enjoyed traveling near and far, especially to Disney World and Italy. He will be affectionately remembered for dressing up as Santa Claus every year for his children, grandchildren and neighbors. Jim will be sorely missed having touched the lives of everyone he met.

In addition to Dottie, Jim is survived by 4 children: Kristy DaSilva, Shawn Ford (Theresa), Megan Drake (Ben), and Josh Ford (Heather); 7 grandchildren: Tom Murphy, Heather Murphy, Amber Dickersheid, Emily Ford, Ethan “Asher” Ford, Genevieve Drake, and Violet Ford; and 5 sisters: Bonita Hall, Deb Leonard, Kate Brode, Brenda Ford-Yablonski, and Rhonda Ford-Rosa. He was predeceased by 2 sisters, Robin and Roberta.

The family will receive guests from 5-7 PM on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. Interment will follow at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Jim’s name to SPCA Lancaster, 848 S Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.