John Dale Ford, 60, passed from this life December 11th, 2022, in Antlers, Oklahoma. He was born May 11, 1962, in Fort Worth, Texas, to John R. and Lois L. (Butts) Ford.

John was first a husband. He worked hard, and when he clocked out at work he clocked in at home. He supported his wife Betty Ford with everything he had. If she needed help with the kids, laundry, dishes, cleaning, cooking you could find him right beside her every step of the way. He was the half that made her whole.

Second, He was Dad, Daddy, Father. He showed them his love for hunting and fishing. He showed them how to be a kid by turning into one himself (the biggest kid out there to be exact). Some of his favorite games included firecracker wars and kick the can, cards. He taught his children that you get what you give. How to treat people from your Yes Ma'ams and No Sirs to you never know what people are going through so be slow to judge and point fingers (and to pull fingers), and that respect is earned. That there's a time to work and a time to play. A time to shut up and a time to crank some AC DC and rock out! He was a man of many hats. One was chasing you around Walmart, embarrassing you every step of the way or say what’s on your shirt. He taught them that it's not in your time it’s in Gods time (and there will be no rushing God). He showed them how to overcome, win, never give up, how to say I'm sorry, to forgive and let go, and love with all your heart and soul and to not half-ass anything. He taught them the real reason to get up in the morning is CHOCOLATE GRAVY. Also, everyone should have a hot wheel (not a matchbox). He showed them every day how much he loved them not just in words but actions. Even though they feel robbed because their dad died so young, they find comfort in the fact that he will live forever through them. They know just because he isn’t here physically, doesn't mean he is gone. He is preparing an afterlife party for them with his mom, Dad, brother David, Dustin, and the many others that are there too.

Third he was Papa, Popa John. He was a homemade pizza making, skull and cross bone wearing, Harley Davidson and hot wheel loving one of a kind Popa. He filled in as honorary Santa one year and the best movie partner, especially if it was a scary one). He kept it real with them (sometimes too real and had to be censored by his own children). With a little help from his friend The Goatman, he taught them how to treat their parents with love and respect. John taught them about gardening, and they loved how he planted the willow tree right in front of the house. Also, in order to listen to music right, you need the best headphones and speakers with good bass. He loved his grandkids so much (his own kids were a little jealous). He was a source of comfort, protection, laughter, and aggravation for his grandchildren. John Dale Ford. Husband, Dad, Popa. We love you and are going to miss you so much!

John is preceded in death by his father: John Ford; mother: Lois Ford; brother: David Ford and nephew: Dustin Ayers.

He leaves behind many loved ones to cherish his memory, including his wife: Betty Ford of the home; children: Brandon and Tammy Brock of Crowley, TX, Barry Langston of Bentonville, AR, Wyndi and Jason Harrell of Antlers, OK, Ryan and Cristy Ford of Durant, OK, Bobbiejo and Julian Bailey of Antlers, OK, and; brother: Mike Ford and wife Ruth of Abilene, TX; grandchildren: Tatum Brock, Brandie Brock, Stephanie Brock, Kylie Brock, Zackary Harrell, Zoey Lue Harrell, Ryder Ford, Sawyer Ford, Briley Sorrells, Abby Lue Sorrells, Caradee Bailey, Damian Bailey, Gavin Langston, Brianna Harrell and Hunter Harrell; great grandchildren: Danielle Brock and Jaxton Patrick; as well as numerous other family members and a host of friends.   

John's memorial service will be held 11 AM, Saturday, December 17, 2022, at the Serenity Funeral Service Chapel, in Antlers, Oklahoma. Pastor Tommy Cornstubble will be officiating.

Services are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Service in Antlers, Oklahoma.