Family Reflects On ‘Remarkable’ Life of Hester Ford, Oldest Living Woman In The U.S.

CHARLOTTE – The family of Hester Ford is reflecting on her life and legacy, as they prepare to say goodbye.  Ford was known as the oldest living woman in the United States.  She died Saturday at the age of 116.  Ford was born in 1904 on a farm in Lancaster County, South Carolina.  She met her true love when she was just a teenager, and got married when she was 14.  Her husband John was 15.  The couple moved to Charlotte and had 12 children, 53 grandchildren, 120 great-grandchildren, and 126 great-great grandchildren.

The family says the secret to her long life was never really a secret.

“Her faith.  That’s the only thing that can carry you through all those things.  It’s your faith.  You have to believe in something greater than what you’re going through to make it,” says John Ford, Hester’s grandson.

Ford suffered from dementia, but on her 112th birthday, she was able to recite the 23rd Psalm.

Last August, dozens turned out for a special drive by birthday celebration for Ford held by her family and friends.  Ford lived through two pandemics, countless wars, the Great Depression.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.