Deputy Warden Rick Ford began his career with the department in 1983 as a correctional officer; he was promoted to Correctional Counselor in 1987; Administrative Officer in 1990; Correctional Case Manager Supervisor in 1994; in 1997 was names Assistant Training Administrator at the Center for Correctional Officer Studies in Wilburton, OK; transferred to JEHCC in July 2001 to assume the position of Unit Manager serving until he was named Deputy Warden.
Ford was a member of the American Correctional Assoc, Southern States Correctional Assoc, member and former President of Oklahoma Correctional Assoc. He was active in the Community; former Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman; Secretary of Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma; former board member and past chairman of the board for Heavener Chamber of Commerce as well as serving as President and Vice President; former Advisory Board member of Mid-America Bible College; member of Heavener Lodge No. 154 of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Bedouin Shriners AAONMS of Muskogee, OK. Rick completed Management III, Executive Level for Administration of Jails. He holds an Assoc. of Arts Business Admin. Degree from CASC, Poteau; BS in Business Admn. from SOSU, Durant; and completed Leadership of LeFlore County in 2010.
He was a devoted husband to Betty, a loving father to John and Jenna, a grandfather and true friend whose influence reached beyond his professional accomplishments. His life of service, leadership, generosity, and commitment to his family and community left a lasting legacy worthy of honor and remembrance.