1969
Raymond
2025
Raymond Ford
December 31, 1969 — November 6, 2025
Raymond Carl Ford, 93, of Rockford, passed away peacefully at his home on November 6, 2025. He was born on May 24, 1932, in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Ira and Inez (Leete) Ford. Ray married Penny (Baxter) Grow on March 19, 1974, and together they built a loving life filled with faith, service, and family. He worked for many years at Estwing, where he retired as the Foreman of the night shift. A gifted and generous handyman, Ray was always ready to help others—whether fixing something for family, a neighbor, or anyone in need. His heart for service extended far beyond home; he worked as a missionary, helping build five churches in Mexico and the Alaskan Christian College in Soldotna, Alaska. He also volunteered his time and skills repairing furniture for the Carpenter's Place donation center. Ray was a longtime member of the male chorus and choir at First Covenant Church, and in later years, he and Penny attended Maywood Evangelical Free Church. A dedicated Christian and loving family man, Ray spent his life serving others and studying God's Word. When he wasn't lending a helping hand, he could often be found with his Bible open, reflecting on his faith.
Survivors include his loving wife of 51 years, Penny; children Cheryll (David) Hogan, David (Gloria) Ford, Daniel (Judy) Ford, Lori (Todd) Schoeney, Andrew (Vickie) Ford, Kenneth (Vicki) Grow, Ben Grow, and Jennifer (Tim) Walters; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents; daughter Diane Ford; grandson Cole Shoeney; brothers Richard and Ronald Ford; and sister Marilyn Ford.
A Memorial Service will be at 11 am, Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Maywood Evangelical Free Church, 3621 Samuelson Rd., Rockford, IL 61109. A visitation will be held at 10 am until time of service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the church. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111.
Survivors include his loving wife of 51 years, Penny; children Cheryll (David) Hogan, David (Gloria) Ford, Daniel (Judy) Ford, Lori (Todd) Schoeney, Andrew (Vickie) Ford, Kenneth (Vicki) Grow, Ben Grow, and Jennifer (Tim) Walters; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents; daughter Diane Ford; grandson Cole Shoeney; brothers Richard and Ronald Ford; and sister Marilyn Ford.
A Memorial Service will be at 11 am, Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Maywood Evangelical Free Church, 3621 Samuelson Rd., Rockford, IL 61109. A visitation will be held at 10 am until time of service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the church. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Raymond Ford, please visit our flower store.
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