The automotive industry has lost an icon today in the passing of William Clay Ford Sr., Director Emeritus of the Ford Motor Company and the last surviving grandchild of Ford Motor Company’s founder, Henry Ford. William “Bill” Ford Sr. died at his home this morning from pneumonia at 88 years of age. Throughout his life, he was a Ford employee and director, as well as an influential member of the Ford family.
“My father was a great business leader and humanitarian who dedicated his life to the company and the community,” said William Clay Ford, Jr., executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “He also was a wonderful family man, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, yet he will continue to inspire us all.”
“Mr. Ford had a profound impact on Ford Motor Company,” said Alan Mulally, Ford president and CEO. “The company extends its deepest sympathies to the many members of the extended Ford family at this difficult time. While we mourn Mr. Ford’s death, we also are grateful for his many contributions to the company and the auto industry.”
In honor of Mr. Ford’s memory, Ford Motor Company locations in the U.S. will lower their American and Ford flags to half-staff for a 30-day period, while Ford locations outside of the U.S. will follow local custom.
Funeral services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, it has been asked that contributions be sent in the name of William Clay Ford to the Henry Ford Museum, at 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, Michigan. 48124 or to Dr. Scott Dulchavsky’s Innovation Institute at Henry Ford Health System at 2799 W. Grand Boulevard, Detroit, Michigan, 48045.
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