In Loving Memory of John Ford, Rubyvale, Queensland
The close-knit community of Rubyvale and the wider Central Queensland gemfields are mourning the loss of a true local legend, John Ford, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.
John was not just a resident of Rubyvale; he was part of its very bedrock. For over four decades, he was a familiar and beloved figure, his life intertwined with the sapphire-rich soil he loved. With a keen eye and endless patience, John was a master fossicker, known for his uncanny ability to find “colour” where others saw only dirt. He would often say the real treasure wasn’t in the stones, but in the stories shared and the friendships forged around the sieves and tunnels.
More than a miner, John was the heart of the community. He was a stalwart of the local show, a generous mentor to newcomers trying their luck, and always had time for a yarn and a cup of billy tea. His weathered face would light up with a broad, genuine smile, especially when speaking of his beloved family, who were his greatest pride.
John Ford leaves behind a legacy not measured in carats, but in kindness, resilience, and community spirit. He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret, his children, and grandchildren, who will forever cherish their memories of a humble man with a heart of gold. The gemfields have lost a keeper of their history and a friend to all. He will be deeply missed, but the memories of his spirit, like the sapphires he sought, will endure forever. Rest in peace, John.