Longtime Voice of Dacula Falcons Football Remembered

Joel Wesley Ford III, 76, of Loganville, Georgia, passed away after decades of service to his community.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:23am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a church steeple and bell tower, with the scene reflected in a rain-streaked window and bathed in warm, golden light, conveying a sense of reverence and community.The passing of a beloved community member who dedicated decades to his local church and high school football team marks the end of an era for the Dacula community.Lawrenceville Today

Joel Wesley Ford III, a 76-year-old resident of Loganville, Georgia, passed away on March 18, 2026. Ford was a 1967 graduate of Dacula High School and served as the voice of the Dacula Falcons Football team for 40 years, showing immense pride in his alma mater. He was also a long-time member of Sunrise Baptist Church in Lawrenceville.

Why it matters

Ford's passing marks the end of an era for the Dacula community, as he was a beloved and dedicated voice for the high school's football team for over four decades. His commitment to his alma mater and local church highlight the importance of community involvement and the impact individuals can have on their neighborhoods.

The details

Ford is survived by his wife of 21 years, Donna Louise (Nearing) Ford, as well as many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leila (Tanner) and Joel Wesley Ford Jr., and several aunts. A funeral service will be held on April 11, 2026, at Sunrise Baptist Church in Lawrenceville, where Ford was a long-time member. Interment will follow at Shadowlawn Cemetery.

  • Joel Wesley Ford III passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
  • The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM.
  • The Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM prior to the Funeral Service.

The players

Joel Wesley Ford III

A 76-year-old resident of Loganville, Georgia, who was a 1967 graduate of Dacula High School and served as the voice of the Dacula Falcons Football team for 40 years.

Donna Louise (Nearing) Ford

The loving wife of Joel Wesley Ford III for 21 years.

Sunrise Baptist Church

The church in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where Joel Wesley Ford III was a long-time member.

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The takeaway

Joel Wesley Ford III's legacy as the voice of the Dacula Falcons Football team for 40 years and his long-time membership at Sunrise Baptist Church demonstrate the profound impact an individual can have on their local community through dedicated service and unwavering pride in their alma mater.