Daniel Morgan Ford of Middletown, a scholar, dedicated community singer and beloved wordsmith, passed away Jan. 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 83.
A man of sharp intellect and lifelong curiosity, Daniel graduated from Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, before earning his bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, where he met his wife of 60 years, Anne Louise Dilworth Ford. He earned a Ph.D. from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).
Daniel concluded a distinguished career as a senior clinical research manager at Daiichi Sankyo, where his work contributed to the vital advancement of medical research.
Music and language were the heartbeat of Daniel’s life. He was a longtime, avid singer with the Monmouth Civic Chorus and a faithful member of the Tower Hill Church choir. His love for language went far beyond song; he was a perpetual student who mastered the complexities of German, Japanese and Norwegian well into his later years.
Perhaps Daniel’s most unique contribution was his commitment to “Partners in Rhyme.” For 29 years, with unwavering discipline, Dan collaborated on and distributed limericks twice daily. This daily rhythm brought joy, wit and a sense of connection to his circle, showcasing a mind that never stopped creating.
Daniel’s life was defined by a firm commitment to helping others through consistent, selfless giving, including regular blood donations, serving in multiple church leadership positions, and coaching his daughters’ soccer teams.
He is survived by his wife Anne; daughters Brynnen (Jonathan), Carey and Elizabeth; grandkids Ezra, Gibson, Alice, Frances and Charlie; and sister Ruth. They will remember Daniel every time they hear a well-placed pun or “Dandad” joke.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 4 at Tower Hill Church, 255 Harding Road, Red Bank. Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the February 5 – 11, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
