In Memory: Mary Chase Ford - Former AHA Executive Director

It is with deep sadness that Abbeville Board of Commissioners and Executive Director Larry Haqq announce that Mary Chase Neuffer Ford, retired Executive Director, died Thursday, February 29, 2024. For three decades, Mary Chase served as the Director of the Abbeville Housing Authority, tirelessly working to improve the lives of those in need.

Her list of accomplishments reads like a testament to her unwavering dedication to serving her community. She taught homebound instruction and volunteered for community projects.

Mary Chase found joy and fulfillment in various pursuits that enriched both her life and the lives of others. As a member of the Abbeville Cookie Club, she cherished the bonds and friendships made. Her involvement in the Rotary Club and as a longstanding Commissioner of the City of Abbeville Municipal Board of Elections showcased her commitment to civic duty and community. Alongside her mother, Mary Chase played a major role in bringing the Abbeville County Museum into existence. Her memory will forever be treasured by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born February 12, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Henry Happoldt Neuffer and Helen Chase Ladd Neuffer. Mary Chase was reared in Abbeville, graduated from Abbeville High School, attended Erskine College, and graduated from the University of South Carolina in Columbia. As a student at USC, she served as a page for Sen. Strom Thurmond. Mary Chase lived in Columbia for several years following graduation. During that time, she was employed with the Alston Wilkes Society. Mary Chase relocated to her family home on North Main Street in Abbeville, where she married and reared her children.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her former husband, Edwin Ford Jr.

Mary Chase is survived by her children, Edwin Hugh Ford III of Abbeville and Helen Chase Ford of Columbia; brother, Henry Happoldt "Hap" Neuffer and his wife, Holly, of Columbia.

Funeral services were at 4 p.m. in the Abbeville Presbyterian Church on Sunday, March 3rd, 2024.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mary Chase may be sent to the Greater Abbeville Humane Society, Attn. Barbara Freese, 200 Greenville St., Abbeville, SC 29620 or UCMAC, P.O. Box 502, Abbeville, SC 29620.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.