Dorothy Ayer Gardner Ford

Photograph of Dorothy Ayer Gardner - NARA - 186852

Dorothy Ayer Gardner Ford (February 27, 1892 – September 17, 1967) was an American woman best known as the mother of Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States. Her life story reflects the challenges and triumphs of early 20th-century America, including widowhood, remarriage, and raising a future president.

Early Life

Dorothy Ayer Gardner was born in Harvard, Illinois, to a well-established family. Her early life was marked by the values of hard work, education, and the importance of family, which were common ideals in the American Midwest during this period. These values would later be instilled in her son, Gerald Ford.

Marriage and Family

In 1912, Dorothy married Leslie Lynch King, a prominent businessman. The marriage, however, was troubled from the start, marred by King's abusive behavior. Dorothy left King just sixteen days after the birth of their son, Leslie Lynch King Jr., who would later be known as Gerald Ford, following her divorce and subsequent remarriage to Gerald Rudolff Ford, a Grand Rapids businessman. Gerald Ford Sr. adopted her son, giving him his name and a stable family life, which greatly influenced the future president's character and values.

Life in Grand Rapids

After her marriage to Gerald Ford Sr., Dorothy settled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she became an active member of the community. She was involved in various charitable organizations and played a significant role in her son's upbringing, emphasizing the importance of education, integrity, and public service.

Legacy

Dorothy Ayer Gardner Ford's legacy is most visibly continued through her son's accomplishments and the values he espoused as a public servant. Her resilience in the face of adversity, dedication to family, and commitment to community service left an indelible mark on Gerald Ford, shaping him into a leader who valued honesty, transparency, and the welfare of the American people.

Death

Dorothy Ayer Gardner Ford passed away on September 17, 1967, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her life and contributions are remembered as integral to the story of her son's rise to the presidency and the values he represented in American politics.