James Anderson was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and primarily grew up in Minnesota.

He was the first person of the title to serve full time, as all previous House Chaplains were either retired or held other pastorals.

He credited his long term to his good standing with the representatives, even when cost-cutting measures threatened to make the chaplain a voluntary position.

Ford triggered a political controversy when he retired in 2000, forcing a long debate in the House of Representatives regarding who his successor would be.

The District of Columbia medical examiner listed cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.