Larry Ford

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Larry Ford, a beloved brother, uncle, friend, and patriot, who left this world on October 18, 2026, at the Clement Zablocki VA Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer and dementia. Born on April 8, 1950, in Cleveland, Texas, Larry was the cherished son of Walter Douglas and Carrie Juanita Ford, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his son Larry and his beloved wife Jewell. Larry's life was a testament to service and passion. A proud graduate of DuSable High School, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1968. With unwavering dedication, he served on the front lines in Vietnam as a Sergeant until 1971, where he was wounded in action and was awarded a medal and badge for his bravery and sacrifice. After his honorable discharge, Larry pursued his love for cooking, a passion that began in his youth. He became a chef, delighting family and friends with his culinary skills and the warmth of his kitchen. Known for rising early on holidays to prepare splendid meals, Larry's cooking was a gift shared generously and enjoyed by all. Larry's life was enriched by his love for family and friends, his fondness for old TV shows, and the joy he found in listening to old school music. He was a devoted preacher of the gospel, sharing messages of hope and faith with those around him. His kind nature, warm smile, and wonderful sense of humor, inherited from his mother, were defining traits that endeared him to everyone. Larry was always ready with a joke and had a funny name for everybody, spreading laughter and light wherever he went. Larry leaves behind a loving family, including his sisters Georgette Thompson and Rita Ford, his brothers Eddie Ford, Walter Ford, and Lonnie Ford, as well as his nieces Stephanie Ford, Carrie Ford, and Donetta Ford. He is also survived by his nephew Clarence Thompson, a host of great-nieces and nephews, and his special friend LaQuanda Lenon, along with her sons and grandchildren, all of whom will cherish his memory. A service to celebrate Larry's life will be held on November 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at AR Leaks & Son, located at 7843 S Cottage Grove, Chicago, Illinois 60619. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization close to Larry's heart. The family extends their deepest gratitude to all who have offered prayers and support, particularly the staff at Clement Zablocki VA Hospital and Greenhouse Building 147 for their compassionate care. Larry Ford will be remembered as a loving and devoted individual whose legacy of kindness, humor, and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.