In Loving Memory

Photo of Donald Gene Ford

Donald Gene Ford

February 18, 1967 — May 7, 2026

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt remembrance that we announce the passing of Donald Gene Ford, a beloved son, father, and friend, who departed this world on May 7, 2026, at the age of 59. Born on February 18, 1967, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Donald's journey through life was one marked by passion, humor, and devotion to those he cherished. Donald was the cherished son of Phyllis Jean (Dodd) Dunning and the late Donald Claude Ford. While his father and step-father, Clyde Dunning, have predeceased him, their memories live on through Donald's dedication to family and his unwavering strength. He leaves behind his devoted mother, Phyllis, and his treasured daughter, Darla Ford, who was the light of his life and his greatest source of pride. Donald’s early years saw him moving from Lamar Elementary in Wichita Falls, TX, to various schools across California, culminating in his graduation from Lakewood High School in Lakewood, CA. His educational journey was just the beginning of a life dedicated to learning, craftsmanship, and innovation. In his professional life, Donald was a man of many talents. His career spanned diverse fields, from working in oil refineries in California to owning and operating A AfFORDable Appliance Repair, where his dedication to excellence left a lasting impression on all who sought his service. Later, as a supervisor at Geek Squad, he was known for his leadership, technical skills, and his ability to bring a smile to anyone's face, regardless of the situation. Donald’s life was enriched by his varied interests and hobbies. An enthusiast of extreme skateboarding videos and a passionate guitar player, he found joy in the thrill of adventure and the soothing chords of music. His talent in woodworking was admired by many, and he delighted in crafting pieces that were as beautiful as they were functional. As a child, Donald played soccer with a zest that foreshadowed his future pursuits. His love for family genealogy connected him to his roots and allowed him to share his family’s legacy with future generations. Those who had the pleasure of knowing Donald will remember him for his infectious smile and quick wit, always ready with a joke to brighten any day. Yet, he was equally known for his depth of character, often engaging in meaningful conversations about the Bible, a testament to his spiritual curiosity and the wisdom he sought throughout his life. A celebration of Donald's life will be held on May 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the First Baptist Church, located at 713 4th Street, Bellevue, TX 76228. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via livestream at www.fbcbellevuetx.org. We invite all who knew and loved Donald to join us in honoring a life that was lived with warmth, humor, and an unwavering commitment to family and faith. In this time of mourning, we find solace in the memories that Donald leaves behind. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. He will be missed beyond measure, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.