
In Loving Memory

Donald Gene Ford
February 18, 1967 — May 7, 2026
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Donald Gene Ford, who left us peacefully on May 7, 2026, at the age of 59. Born on February 18, 1967, in Wichita Falls, TX, Donald was a cherished soul whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and insight to all who knew him.
Donald was the beloved son of Phyllis Jean (Dodd) Ford and the late Donald Claude Ford. He was also predeceased by his step-father, Clyde Dunning. He is survived by his devoted mother, Phyllis Dunning, and his cherished daughter, Darla Ford, who was his pride and joy. Although Donald did not have grandchildren, his nurturing spirit touched the lives of many young ones in his extended family and community.
Donald’s journey through life was marked by his vibrant smile, quick wit, and an unwavering ability to lighten the hearts of those around him. His humor was contagious, and he possessed a remarkable talent for turning even the simplest moments into joyful memories. Yet, beneath his jovial exterior was a man of depth, who relished in profound discussions about the Bible and the mysteries of life.
His formative years were spent between Texas and California, attending schools from Lamar Elementary in Wichita Falls to Lakewood High School in Lakewood, CA, where he graduated with fond memories and lifelong friendships. Donald’s career path was as diverse as his interests. He embarked on a journey through the oil refineries of California, later establishing his own successful business, A AfFORDable Appliance Repair. His professional life culminated in a leadership role as a supervisor with Geek Squad, where his technical acumen and leadership inspired his colleagues.
Donald was a man of many talents and passions. He found joy in making extreme skateboarding videos, a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for the exhilarating. The gentle strumming of his guitar brought calmness to his days, while his woodworking skills turned simple pieces of wood into works of art. A soccer enthusiast from his youth, he cherished the camaraderie and discipline the sport brought into his life. Another of Donald’s passions was family genealogy, through which he meticulously pieced together the rich tapestry of his ancestry, honoring the legacy of those who came before him.
A service to celebrate Donald’s life will be held at 12:00 PM on May 25, 2026, at the First Baptist Church, located at 713 4th Street, Bellevue, TX 76228. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed at www.fbcbellevuetx.org, allowing all who loved him to join in honoring his memory.
In our hearts, Donald Gene Ford will forever be remembered as a beacon of light, whose love and laughter resonated throughout the lives of his family and friends. His legacy of kindness, humor, and wisdom will continue to inspire us all. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we take solace in the knowledge that he is at peace, reunited with his father and step-father, and embraced by the everlasting love of God.
Rest in peace, dear Donald. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.