Clay Ford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Clarence V. "Clay" Ford
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| Member of the Florida House of Representatives from the 2nd district |
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| In office 2012 – March 18, 2013 |
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| Preceded by | Clay Ingram |
| Succeeded by | Mike Hill |
| Member of the Florida House of Representatives from the 3rd district |
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| In office 2007–2012 |
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| Preceded by | Holly Benson |
| Succeeded by | Doug Broxson |
| Member of the Gulf Breeze City Council | |
| In office 1990 – March 2007 |
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| Member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from the Pulaski County district |
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| In office 1975–1976 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | September 24, 1938 Wynne, Cross County Arkansas, USA |
| Died | March 18, 2013 (aged 74) |
| Cause of death | Cancer |
| Political party | Arkansas Democrat-turned-Florida Republican |
| Spouse | Carol Ann Ford |
| Children | David Anthony Ford Douglas A. Ford |
| Residences | Gulf Breeze Santa Rosa County, Florida |
| Alma mater | University of Arkansas University of Arkansas School of Law |
| Occupation | Attorney and retired military officer |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | United States Army Arkansas National Guard |
Clarence V. Ford, known as Clay Ford, was an important politician and lawyer. He was born on September 24, 1938, and passed away on March 18, 2013. Mr. Ford was a Republican who lived in Gulf Breeze, Florida. He served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2007 until his death.
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Who Was Clay Ford?
Clay Ford was born in Wynne, Arkansas. He was married to Carol Ann Ford. Together, they had three sons: David, Doug, and Clay. He was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren.
His Military Service
Mr. Ford had a long and impressive career in the military. He served in the United States Army, the Army Reserve, and the Arkansas National Guard. His service lasted from 1955 to 1988. He started as a private and worked his way up to the rank of colonel. He studied at special military schools like the United States Army War College.
His Education
Clay Ford was a dedicated student. In 1969, he earned a degree in Finance from the University of Arkansas. Later, in 1978, he became a lawyer after graduating from the University of Arkansas School of Law. He also earned a Master of Science degree in public administration in 1986 from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.
Clay Ford's Political Career
Clay Ford served in government for many years, both in Arkansas and Florida. He worked to help the people in his communities.
Serving Arkansas
Before moving to Florida, Clay Ford was active in Arkansas politics.
- From 1975 to 1976, he was a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives. This is where laws are made for the state.
- He also served on a Special School District Board in Pulaski County from 1977 to 1979.
- In 1978 and 1979, he helped write new rules for the state as a delegate to the Arkansas Constitutional Convention.
Serving Florida
After moving to Florida, Clay Ford continued his public service.
- He was a member of the Gulf Breeze City Council from 1990 to 2007. This council helps run the city of Gulf Breeze.
- He even became the president of the Florida League of Cities from 2004 to 2005. This group helps different cities work together.
- In 2007, he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. He was re-elected in 2008.
- From 2008 to 2009, he held a leadership role as the House Deputy Whip.
His Beliefs and Community Work
Clay Ford was a Methodist and was involved in many community groups.
- He was a member of the American Legion, which supports veterans.
- He belonged to the Arkansas Bar Association and the Florida Bar, which are groups for lawyers.
- He was also part of the Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce and Rotary International. These groups help local businesses and communities.
- He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association (NRA). He received support from the NRA and other groups like the Florida Chamber of Commerce.
His Legacy
Clay Ford passed away from cancer at age seventy-four. The Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, Will Weatherford, spoke highly of him. He called Clay Ford "a friend, a mentor, and a tender conscience."
To honor his memory, the Florida Legislature created the Clay Ford Scholarship Program. This scholarship helps accounting students.
