Dorothy Bowles Ford

Dorothy Bowles Ford is renowned as the mother of Harold Ford Jr., a former U.S. Congressman. Additionally, she gained prominence as the spouse of Harold Ford Sr., the inaugural African-American Congressman, with whom she shared a marriage that spanned more than three decades. 

Following her divorce from Harold Ford Sr., she chose to step away from public visibility, and there is scarce information accessible regarding her private life. To know more about Ford's early life, educational background,  career, etc, continue reading the article below.

Early Life And Educational Background

Dorothy, born in 1949, is currently in her mid-seventies. She is from the United States and belongs to the African-American ethnicity. The former celebrity spouse is the sole child of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bowles.

Dorothy Bowles Ford enlisted at Howard University in Washington, D.C., focusing on political science, a belief to her enthusiastic interest in public affairs. Despite not finishing her degree, this fragment of information offers a glance into her educational history, highlighting her dedication to the field of political science and public affairs.

Ford's Married Life 

Dorothy's initial spouse was Harold Ford Senior. Their story began in Memphis around 1967/1968 when Dorothy forged a friendship with Ford Senior. This friendship evolved into courtship, and Dorothy not only fell in love with him but also embraced his large family. They became engaged and exchanged vows on February 10, 1969.

A portrait of the Inaugural African-American Congressman, Harold Ford Senior.
SOURCE: Pinterest

Over their 30-year marriage, Dorothy and Harold Ford Senior navigated the challenges of his political career, with Dorothy actively supporting him. She joined him on campaign trails, contributing to his victories in both the Tennessee State House of Representatives and the U.S. Congress.

The union produced three sons, and Dorothy managed to balance family life with her career. Besides her political support, she worked at Electric Potomac Co. in Washington, D.C., serving as the supervisor of consumer and regulation duties, addressing consumer needs and suggestions.

Read more: How Is The Married Life Of Political Commentator S.E. Cupp And Husband John Goodwin?

After A Long Married Life, Dorothy And Harold Ford Sr. Separated.

Despite the challenges of being in the public eye, Dorothy handled it gracefully. She delivered public speeches and aided her spouse in client communication. Additionally, the celebrity's mom actively participated in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Spouses, gaining recognition for her contributions in a 1998 feature by Ebony Magazine.

Dorothy and Harold Ford Senior enjoyed a 30-year marriage but decided to part ways in 1999 due to marital issues. They peacefully agreed on various matters, facilitating an amicable separation and avoiding public scrutiny.

About The Children Of Former Celebrity's Spouse

Dorothy Bowles Ford has three children from her previous marriage to Harold Ford Sr. The eldest, born in 1970, is Harold Ford Jr., a business advisor, commentator, and author who previously worked for Fox Television. Harold Jr. followed in his father's footsteps and served in the Tennessee House of Representatives from 1997 to 2007.

A portrait of a former U.S. Congressman, Harold Ford Junior. 
SOURCE: Pinterest

Her second child, Jake Newton Ford, faced legal issues in his youth, including arrests for violence, DWI, and marijuana possession. Despite these challenges, he turned his life around and ran as an independent candidate for Tennessee's 9th congressional district in 2006.

Jake is focusing on social and fiscal issues but ultimately facing defeat in an election. Dorothy's third child, Lord Isaac Ford, born in 1975, is a successful businessman. Like other family members, Isaac has also ventured into politics, albeit unsuccessfully running for Shelby County Mayor in 2002.

Interests And Career

Dorothy has actively supported her family's civic pursuits and championed causes for underprivileged women. Her life is marked by a steadfast dedication to family, community, education, and photography.

While Ford's strong commitment to these aspects is well-established, detailed information about her career and interests is not extensively documented. Dorothy's influence is evident through her active involvement in advocacy, yet the specific nuances of her professional endeavors remain relatively undisclosed in the available records.

Ford: A Down To Earth Personality

Following her divorce from her first spouse, Dorothy has chosen to lead a private life, making it challenging to gain precise insights into her current situation. While the possibility of her remarriage exists, it remains unverified. What is certain, however, is that she is ensuring a comfortable life for herself.

Maintaining a connection with her ex-husband, Dorothy actively collaborates with him in supporting their children's civic pursuits. Additionally, she dedicates considerable time to spoiling her grandchildren. Demonstrating an active presence in her community, Ford is engaged in fundraising efforts for shelters aiding destitute women, including Industry Village and the House of Ruth.

Dorothy's Net Worth