Mary J. Ford

Richard Ormesher

Mary J. Ford, 78, of Kensington, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at Carroll Golden Age Retreat.

She was born March 1, 1947, in Malvern to Hugh and Opal (Buck) Long.

She worked for many years in the health care industry, starting with Lorraine Smith at Minerva Nursing Home and later working for Minerva Convalescent Center, Great Trail Care Center and Carroll Golden Age Retreat, as well as serving as a personal care aide in many homes. She graduated from Minerva High School in 1966 and from Columbus Area Technical School. She was a member of Minerva First Christian Church. She loved gardening and being the “Queen of Drama” and had been active in 4-H.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Ford, who died in 2022; four sisters, Virginia Long, Pearl Rogers, Eileen Buck and Nancy Mitchell; and two brothers, Hugh Long Jr. and Frank “Bud” Long. She is survived by a sister, Lurena Kimble of East Rochester; a brother, Homer (Shirley) Long of Kensington; a stepdaughter, Linda Nitz of Augusta; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, Feb. 13, at 11 a.m. at Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva with Mr. Chris Sanford officiating. Burial took place at Liberty Cemetery. Calling hours were held one hour prior to services, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the funeral home.

Those wishing to send condolences may sign the online register at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.