Grace Ford Essex Ontario Obituary: With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Grace Ford, who left us peacefully on April 18, 2025, in Essex, Ontario, at the age of 97. Grace’s departure leaves a void that will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a beacon of kindness, compassion, and love, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.
Grace was born on November 14, 1927, in Essex, Ontario, where she spent her entire life surrounded by the beauty of the countryside and the warmth of close-knit family and friends. A daughter of hardworking parents, she learned the values of integrity, humility, and determination at an early age. Her roots in this town were deep, and she remained a proud member of the Essex community throughout her life, contributing to the town in many ways.
Grace’s love for family was unparalleled. She was the cherished mother of three children—Paul (Linda), Ruth (Charles), and Alice (Gary)—and the proud grandmother of seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. To her children, Grace was a constant source of guidance, strength, and unconditional love. Her nurturing spirit and steady presence helped shape them into the individuals they are today.
She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, imparting wisdom and love in equal measure. Her legacy will live on through the generations she leaves behind. Beyond her family, Grace was deeply involved in her community. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Anglican Church, where she contributed countless hours volunteering in various roles.
Whether it was organizing church events, helping with fundraising drives, or simply offering a listening ear to those in need, Grace embodied the spirit of service. Her faith was unwavering, and she often said that her guiding principle in life was to “treat others with the same kindness and respect that you would wish for yourself.” Grace had an infectious smile, and her sense of humor could brighten the darkest of rooms.
She was a woman who valued the simple pleasures of life—taking long walks in the countryside, tending to her garden, and enjoying tea with close friends. Her kitchen, always filled with the scent of fresh-baked bread or her famous apple pies, was a place where memories were made, and stories were shared. Many will remember Grace for her warm hospitality, always welcoming others into her home with a smile and a cup of tea. Her generosity extended to everyone she met, and she had an incredible ability to make people feel special and valued.
In addition to her love for family and friends, Grace was passionate about reading and education. She spent much of her life as a self-taught learner, constantly exploring new topics and broadening her knowledge. Grace believed in the power of education to change lives, and she encouraged those around her to pursue their passions and continue learning throughout their lives.
Grace also had a deep love for nature. She found peace and solace in the great outdoors, often taking walks in the fields near her home or sitting quietly by the lake to watch the sunset. She was an advocate for environmental preservation, having volunteered with local conservation groups to help protect the natural beauty of the region she loved so much.
Grace’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and faith. She believed in the goodness of people and always sought to bring out the best in those around her. Her empathy and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her. In her passing, we are reminded of the importance of family, community, and the values of compassion and service.
Grace was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Ford, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. Together, they built a life full of love and memories. They enjoyed traveling, hosting family gatherings, and simply being in each other’s company. Grace’s love for John was unwavering, and their bond was one of deep mutual respect and affection. Although John passed away several years ago, his memory lived on in Grace’s heart, and she spoke of him often with love and fondness.
Grace’s passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched. We find comfort in knowing that she has now been reunited with John, and that they are together once more, watching over all of us.
The Ford family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at the Essex Health Centre for their compassionate care during Grace’s final days. Their kindness and support made her transition peaceful, and we are forever grateful for their professionalism and dedication. A celebration of Grace’s life will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church in Essex, Ontario.
Friends and family are invited to attend to honor Grace’s life and to share memories of a woman who touched so many hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the St. John’s Anglican Church Building Fund or the Essex County Hospice, both of which were close to Grace’s heart.
As we say goodbye to our dear Grace, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire us to live with kindness, love, and a sense of purpose. She was a remarkable woman who made the world a better place, and we are so fortunate to have had her in our lives. May her soul rest in peace, and may we always remember her with love and gratitude. Gone but never forgotten.
