GMF is sad to report the passing of Bishop Andrew J. Ford, II. Ford died Friday, July 19, in New Jersey.
Bishop Ford was the presiding prelate of Next Generation Fellowship Ministries, Inc. and pastor of Philadelphia’s Ford Memorial Temple Baptist Church, the latter founded (as Highway Christian Church of Christ) and pastored by his father Bishop Andrew J. Ford, Sr. until his death in 1993. Bishop Ford was also a gospel music industry notable who is credited with propelling several artists’ careers. His social media bio reads in part:
[Bishop Ford] is also the founder and executive producer of Sweet Rain Record Company, where he discovered, launched the careers of, and produced some of America’s gospel notable artists such as Pastor Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir, The Reverend Ernest Davis, Jr. and Wilmington Chester Mass Choir featuring Rev. Daryl Coley, Southeast Inspirational Choir of Houston, introducing Yolanda Adams, and many others. During his tenure in the recording industry, he was considered ‘The Renaissance Man’ of gospel music, because of his unique ability in recording live choir recordings. His production company was affectionately known as ‘The Choir Boys.’ He has also trained and produced his ‘How Sweet the Sound’ and ‘TV One / Sony Choir Competition’ award-winning church choir, The Anointed Voices of Ford Memorial Temple.
GMF extends condolences and prayers to Bishop Ford’s immediate and extended family, church family, and host of friends.
Libra Nicole Boyd, PhD is a musician, award-winning author, gospel music aficionado, and the founder and editor of Gospel Music Fever™. Her commitment to journalistic integrity includes bringing you reliable gospel music content that uplifts and advances the art form. Libra is presently working on several scholarly projects about gospel music in the media as well as gospel music in social movements.