James Edward Ford, age 82, of Louisiana, Missouri, formerly of Vandalia, Missouri passed away peacefully at 12:13 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Hannibal Regional Hospital.

A visitation celebrating James’ life will be held from 5:00 p.m. until funeral services begin at 6:00 p.m Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Waters Funeral Home.  James' nephew Kevin Ford will officiate.  Full military honors will be conducted at the funeral home immediately following the service. Cremation arrangements will follow.

James was born on May 21, 1944, in Frankford, Missouri, the son of William Edward Ford and Annabelle Watson Ford.

He was united in marriage to Carolyn Cheney on August 4, 1963. Together they shared many years of marriage and built a life centered on family.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Carolyn Ford; his daughter, Carmen Ford; two brothers, Gary Ford and wife, Donna, and Dennis Ford and wife, Debbie; three grandchildren, Kerry Channell, Dalton Channell (Leah), and Alivia Perrine; two great-grandchildren, Amara Burse and Demarious Burse; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who will deeply miss him.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

Answering his nation's call, James enlisted in the United States Army on April 22, 1968, and proudly served during the Vietnam War. During his military service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Service Stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device in recognition of his honorable service.

James enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, riding his bicycle to the library where he enjoyed visiting with friends and reading western novels, searching for treasures at yard sales, and enjoying a good meal. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. James also loved his faithful dogs, Nala and Miles, and cherished visiting with friends at the local barber shop.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Vandalia Branch Library.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on James' memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com