Louise Preston Ford

Louise Preston Ford, of Bedford, passed away Wednesday, November 28, 2012 following a long illness. She was the only daughter of the late Julian Taylor Preston and Mellie Walters Preston. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Allan Parks Ford and son, Allan Parks Ford, Jr. of Bedford.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Virginia M. Ford, of Bedford; her nephew, the Rev. Dr. William Clayton Ford, Jr. and wife, Cheryl V. of San Diego, California; and her nieces, Victoria Ford McFarland and husband, Leighton W.; and Elizabeth Ford Hampton, of Bedford.

Louise was a member of Main Street United Methodist Church and a beloved member of the Bedford community where she served faithfully on the Board of the Avenel Foundation and was a member of the Friday Book Club, the Blue Ridge Garden Club, the Bedford Hospital Auxiliary and the Bedford Historical Society. Among her many talents, she enjoyed painting, sewing and needlework, but her greatest joy was sharing her time and friendship with all who knew and loved her.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Avenel Foundation, PO Box 686, Bedford, VA 24523.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 4, 2012 in Oakwood Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. William Clayton Ford officiating. A reception will follow at Main Street United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford, 586-3443.