Longtime Mount Vernon Postal Worker Virgil Ford Dies at 92

Ford was a U.S. Army veteran and active in the National Association of Retired Federal Employees.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:21pm

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Virgil Ford, a longtime U.S. Postal Service employee and resident of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at the age of 92 on March 31, 2026. Ford served in the U.S. Army and was active in the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. He is survived by his sons, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Virgil Ford's passing marks the end of an era for Mount Vernon's postal service and the local community, as he was a fixture in the area for decades through his work, military service, and involvement in retiree organizations.

The details

Ford worked many years for the U.S. Postal Service in Mount Vernon and also farmed. He was preceded in death by his wife Norma and two daughters, Debra Lee Ford and Paula S. Ford. Ford is survived by his sons Brian and Rodney, daughter Joyce, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

  • Virgil Ford passed away on March 31, 2026 at 2:45 pm.
  • Ford was born on June 20, 1933 in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

The players

Virgil Ford

A 92-year-old resident of Mount Vernon, Illinois who worked for many years at the U.S. Postal Service and was active in the National Association of Retired Federal Employees.

Lester Ford

Virgil Ford's late father.

Edith (Phelps) Ford

Virgil Ford's late mother.

Norma (Bond) Ford

Virgil Ford's late wife.

Brian Ford

Virgil Ford's son.

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What they’re saying

“Virgil was a dedicated public servant who loved his community. He will be deeply missed.”

— Reverend Ted Anderson, Officiant of Virgil Ford's Funeral Service

What’s next

Virgil Ford's funeral service will be held on April 4, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Newell Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

The takeaway

Virgil Ford's life exemplified the values of hard work, community service, and family that have long defined Mount Vernon and the surrounding region. His passing marks the end of an era for the local postal service and the broader community.