Rep. Clay Ford, (R-Gulf Breeze) died Monday night of Cancer. He has been absent from the legislature since the opening day.
He was first elected to the Florida House in 2007 and served as Deputy Whip.
Ford had a long career in politics spanning two states. Originally from Arkansas, Ford served in that state's House of Representatives from 1975-1976. He was a member of Arkansas' Pulaski County Special School Board from 1977-1979 and was an Arkansas Constitutional Convention Delegate in 1978-1979.
The Gulf Breeze attorney served in the Army and National Guard and retired as a Colonel.
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From House Speaker Will Weatherford:
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the loss of one of our family members and dear friend, Representative Clay Ford. The consummate gentleman of the House, Clay Ford was a friend, a mentor, and a tender conscience to all those who served with him. Last night, Clay lost his brave fight with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Carol, his three sons David, Doug, and Clay, and his nine grandchildren.
For those who know Clay, you will not be surprised by his request that we not mourn him with ceremony and fanfare, but that we would allow his family to grieve privately. We will work to honor his wishes, while also providing you with details that would be in keeping with their wishes.
In the meantime, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. We all know how painful and significant the loss of this genuinely good man will be to all of us.”
Ford's death comes after former Senator Larcenia Bullard died on Saturday.
