Kaptur statement on passing of former Toledo Mayor Jack Ford

TOLEDO, OH—Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur issued the following statement in response to news of the passing of former Toledo mayor Jack Ford today:

“It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest sympathy to the Ford family: his wife Cynthia, his children, and his friends and associates. Our community and citizenry holds an abiding gratitude for his lifetime of dedicated and honorable service to us. He was one of a kind.

Mayor Jack Ford gave his life, decade after decade, to our entire community. As newly elected President of Toledo City Council in 1993, he just kept the beat of the City close to him. With every step, he directed himself to move our community and America forward.

He made history. As an educator, health professional, and political activist, Mayor Ford became the very first African American Mayor elected in Toledo. He served in the State legislature and understood the interconnections of our City to the world beyond it. His knowledge was hard-earned and unique. With his election as Mayor, he elevated our community to a more inclusive and progressive place. He made us proud. Jack was all business. He always demonstrated a hands-on, can do attitude.

He was a master of the City budget and directed his Administration to make long neglected improvements.

Even when not feeling well, he carried forward his duties in a soldierly and persevering manner, earning respect from all who knew him.

I particularly appreciated his genius and wry sense of humor. He never missed a beat. Our entire region has benefited from his generous and focused life on behalf of others.

May the angels carry him to a place of peace and rest. He has been truly a good, faithful, and honorable servant.”

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