Meet the Woman Behind the Leader: Dorothy Bowles Ford, Mother of Harold Ford Jr.

Dorothy Bowles Ford is best known as Harold Ford Jr.'s mother. Ford Jr. is a well-known American writer, financial expert, and ex-member of Congress. 

Dorothy is also recognized for being the former wife of Harold Ford Sr., a past member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Memphis, Tennessee. Additionally, Ford Sr. was the final chairman of the Democratic Leadership Council (DLC). 

Dorothy Bowles Ford's Early Life

Dorothy Bowles Ford, known as a celebrity spouse, has kept her date of birth private. However, it's estimated that she is in her late 70s as of 2024. Details about her early life, including information about her parents and siblings, remain undisclosed.

In contrast, her ex-husband, Harold Ford Sr., was born on May 20, 1945, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. He grew up on Horn Lake Road in South Memphis.

Regarding his education, Harold is highly educated. He completed his schooling at Geeter High School, earning a B.S. degree. In 1969, Ford Sr. obtained a degree in mortuary science from John A. Gupton College in Nashville. He further pursued his education at Howard University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration. 

How Rich is Dorothy Bowles Ford?

Dorothy Bowles Ford, coming from a well-known family, has enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle. Her wealth is estimated to be about $3 million in 2024.  

In contrast, Dorothy's son Harold Ford Jr. has built a net worth of around $10 million. His income mainly comes from his work in politics and as a host for TV shows about political analysis.  

Harold Ford Jr.'s Mother, Dorothy Bowles Ford Worked at Potomac Electric Power Co.

Dorothy Bowles Ford previously worked at Potomac Electric Power Co., where she was responsible for coordinating consumer and regulatory affairs, keeping in tune with the needs and perspectives of the company's clients. Additionally, she once held the role of an administrator for her then-husband, Harold Ford Sr.  

Dorothy, however, gained significant media attention primarily through her marriage to Ford Sr., the first African-American congressman who represented in the U.S. House of Representatives for over twenty years. Thus, Dorothy's own identity is often seen in connection with her association with a well-known family. 

Dorothy Bowles Ford and Harold Ford Sr. Was Married to Harold Ford Sr.

Dorothy Bowles Ford and Harold Ford Sr. first crossed paths in 1969 during their high school years. Their relationship blossomed into love, leading to a brief period of dating. 

The couple decided to marry and exchanged vows on February 10, 1969, in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. Their marriage was marked by a strong and healthy relationship. Just a year into their marriage, the lovebirds celebrated the birth of their first son.  

Together, Ford Sr. and Dorothy have three sons: Harold Ford Jr., Newton Jake, and Isaac. While Harold Jr. is well-known, Newton and Isaac have largely kept their personal lives away from the public eye. 

As time passed, Dorothy and Ford Sr.'s relationship began to suffer because of growing misunderstandings and differences they couldn't fix. After being together for over 30 years, they understood that they were not right for each other. They officially separated in 1999. 

Post-Divorce Life of Dorothy Bowles Ford

Following her separation from Harold Ford Sr., Dorothy Bowles Ford has kept her personal life, especially her romantic relationships, very private. Anyone curious about her dating life will have to wait for Dorothy to share such information herself. 

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Currently, Dorothy lives in New York City with her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Post-divorce, Dorothy has chosen to stay out of the media spotlight. She is not active on social media and does not make public appearances.  

Meanwhile, Dorothy's former husband, Harold Ford Sr., is married to Michelle Roberts, who was the executive director of the National Basketball Players Association. They have two children together, Andrew Ford and Ava Ford.

Dorothy Bowles Ford Son Harold Ford Jr.

Dorothy Bowles Ford and Harold Ford Sr. welcomed their eldest child, Harold Ford Jr., on May 11, 1970, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. For his education, he attended Double Tree Elementary School and graduated from the private St. Albans School in Washington, D.C. He furthered his studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earning a B.A. in American history in 1992.  

From 1997 to 2007, Ford Jr. was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, succeeding his father, Harold Ford Sr., in this role. He gained political attention for his decision not to run in the 12th-term election in 1996.

Beyond politics, Harold Ford Jr. held a position as managing director at Morgan Stanley from 2011 to 2017. He frequently appeared on television for political discussions. In 2020, Ford Jr. was appointed Vice Chairman of the Corporate Bank at PNC Financial Service.  

Ford Jr. married Emily Threlkeld in 2008. Dorothy is the proud grandmother of two grandchildren from her eldest son, Georgia Walker, and Harold Eugene III. 

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