Celebrating 28 Days of Black Excellence. Past and Present: George W. Ford, Jr.

Throughout the month of February, The Courier Eco Latino will honor Black History Month by spotlighting one local African American leader—past or present—each day. The series will feature trailblazers, educators, entrepreneurs, artists, advocates, and unsung heroes whose contributions have helped shape the soul, strength, and future of our community.

These are stories that may not always make headlines, but make a difference every day. From classrooms to boardrooms, from pulpits to protest lines, from small businesses to grassroots movements, each honoree reflects resilience, leadership, and service rooted right here at home.

George Washington Ford Jr. (January 14, 1924 – October 29, 2008) didn’t just witness history—he helped make it. Long before "change" became a campaign rallying cry, Ford was quietly reshaping Columbus, Georgia, through unwavering civic leadership, bold firsts, and a deep belief in justice and community.

Born in the segregated South in 1924, Ford began challenging the status quo early. As a freshman at Spencer High School in 1939, he became the youngest member of the local NAACP chapter—a move that foreshadowed his lifelong commitment to civil rights. Decades later, he would serve as the organization’s president from 1971 to 1973, helping bridge racial divides and foster communication between Black and white citizens. He was also instrumental in founding the Urban League in Columbus.

Ford’s journey included military service as a U.S. Marine during World War II. But upon returning home, he was reminded that uniformed service didn’t equal equal rights—fired from his job after an altercation with a white man. That injustice only strengthened his resolve to fight for dignity and equity.

“He was a catalyst for change in Columbus for more than 55 years,” said longtime friend and former state legislator Calvin Smyre. “George Ford lit the torch, and we stand on his shoulders.”

In 1964, Ford became the first Black candidate in the 20th century to run for public office in Muscogee County, launching a campaign for county commissioner. He knew the odds were stacked against him. “His life was threatened. The road was heavy, and night got dark,” said Dr. Robert L. Wright, a fellow civic leader and friend. “He was an ordinary man doing extraordinary things. He knew he was losing to win.”

Though he lost that race—and again in 1968—Ford’s courage cracked open the door of political representation. “All African Americans elected to office in Columbus stand on the shoulders of George Washington Ford Jr.,” Wright affirmed.

Beyond the political arena, Ford left a lasting imprint as founder and president emeritus of Progressive Funeral Home. His service to the community extended well beyond funerals—offering jobs to the unemployed, food to the hungry, and encouragement to anyone in need. As Wright put it: “His life was not defined by what he did, but what he did for others. His knees never got weak, his hands never got tired, his eyes never got dim, and his priorities never got confused.”

Ford also served on the boards of CB&T and Aflac, once unimaginable roles for a Black man born on the margins of segregation. He brought a steady voice and a strategic mind to the very tables where decisions shaping Columbus were made.

He passed away just days before the historic election of Barack Obama—the nation’s first Black president. Though he did not live to see that moment, his decades of quiet courage helped make it possible.

George W. Ford Jr.’s legacy is not just one of titles held or battles fought—but of a life lived in steadfast service to justice, dignity, and the future of his people.