William Ford (December 10, 1826 – March 8, 1905) was an Irish-born American businessman. He was the father of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford.

William was born in County Cork, Ireland; the son of Thomasine (née Smith), and Jonathan "John" Ford. William had six siblings. William attended St. Joseph's High School.

On April 19, 1850, William married Mary Litogot in Wayne County, Michigan, her parents were Belgian immigrants. He and Mary had five children. They moved to Detroit, Michigan.