Honoring a Hometown Hero: Robert I. Ford’s remarkable journey

Bea Coker reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com In the picturesque landscape of Suwannee County, amidst the whispering pines and gentle rivers, stands a man whose life reads like a saga of service, sacrifice and steadfast dedication. Robert I. Ford, a retired US Army Veteran, is more than just a name; he's a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Born as the 15th child to the Late Reverend Sidney Ford and Alice Ford-Bass, Robert's roots run deep in the fertile soil of Suwannee County. Growing up in the tight-knit community of Dowling Park, he imbibed the values of resilience and community spirit from an early age. After donning the cap and gown of Douglass High School in June 1967, F