George William "Bill" Ford

George William "Bill" Ford, born on December 3, 1939, went to be with Jesus on October 24, 2018. Bill was first born son of George Austin Ford and Helen Aline Ford. In 1962 he began ice skating for recreation at Ice Chalet in Knoxville. From 1962-1964 Bill served in the United States Army, stationed in Korea.1965-1975 he worked for Plasti-Line, Inc as a customer service manager (from metal assembly then receiving 1st 5 years). 1965-2011 He was owner, publisher and editor of The Knoxville Independent Newspaper. 1965-1975 Bill was actively involved in ISIA testing program as a skater with Robert Unger School of Ice Skating, Skate Club President for 2 years and competed in several Southeastern competitions with various dance partners (Ice Dance Part). 1975-2001 He was manager and Skating School Director for Ober Gatlinburg Ice Rink, in Gatlinburg, TN. He served as judge and referee; traveled for 7 years with skate team to at least 4 competitions per year. Involved in local elementary school PE program in rink class schedules and obtained PE credits for students. 2003-2005 Bill worked as sales associate at Lowes North Knoxville and Clinton Highway locations. 2005-2006 He worked for JB Contracting, plumbing, wiring and construction of new homes and renovating homes. 2013-2016 Bill co-built a new church (Covenant Life) in Norris, TN. 2016-2017 He worked at Rural King in Halls Crossroads, TN as a sales associate. Bill left behind his loving wife, Patti A. Ford, but just for a little while. Bill also leaves behind his brother Rhea Ford and wife Laura; daughters Becky Scism (children Cameron and Taylor); Missy and Karen Ledford; Betty (Jean) Bevins (sister deceased) niece and daughter of Jean is Regina Bevins and her son Justin; "special cousin" Thomas (Tom) N. Zeto, who was more like a brother. They did many things together and many things for each other over the years. If an extra hand was needed; was always there in the wings (So to speak) willing and ready to jump right in, another cousin William (Bill) Livingood. In lieu of flowers, donations to be made to American Cancer Society (Prostate Cancer Research), 871 N Weisgarber Rd, Knoxville, TN 37909. Funeral service will be held 3:00pm, Saturday, at Mynatt Funeral Home Halls Chapel, with Rev. David Seiber and Rev. Jack Walker officiating. A celebration of life will be held after the funeral. Family and friends will meet 11:15am, Monday, at East Tennessee Veteran Cemetery John Sevier for interment at 11:30am. Condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com.