Bobby Ray Ford

December 18, 1946 - October 18, 2020

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Bobby Ford at his beloved lake home on October 18,2020. Bobby was 73 years old. This loving, caring, hardworking man has left a permanent mark on our hearts and will be forever missed by his wife and best friend of 53 years Brenda Ford and his daughters Shelley Ford Sutton (Kevin), Amy Ford Hilburn (Randy) and the late Kasie Ford Capling (Phil). He was the wonderful ‘Pop’ to Kayla Lassiter (Taylor), Savannah Locklear (Forrest), Philip Capling, Trevor Hilburn and Trent Hilburn. He was the son of the late Annie and Martin Ford, preceded in death by his brother Larry Ford and daughter Kasie. Family was one of the most important things in Bobby’s life. He was proud to be the husband, father and ‘Pop’ of our close knit family. He has been a major presence in the lives of his wife, children, grandchildren, and so many friends that have become family. Bobby retired from CSX Railroad after 42 years of service. He spent his retirement traveling the country, sitting on his favorite beach at Oak Island, fishing and boating, hosting “chicken cookings” and fish frys, and enjoying laughs with his friends and family. Bobby will forever be remembered for being a great friend, loving his family, loving the outdoors, never meeting a stranger, and having a full cooler close at hand. Although our hearts are heavy, we celebrate his life and find comfort that he is in Heaven watching over us. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at Christ Church, 2416 Zion Church Road, Hickory NC on Thursday, October 22nd at 2 pm. In true Bobby Ford fashion, the family invites you to dress casually for this gathering, opting for shorts instead of coat and tie. The family is requesting attendees to social distance and to wear masks. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Christ Church – Children’s Ministry. Online condolences at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.