Leola H. Ford Obituary (1938 - 2026)

The world lost a remarkable soul on Friday, August 7, 2026, with the passing of Leola H. Ford, affectionately known to all as “Lee”. A devoted wife, loyal friend, loving mother, and proud grandmother, Lee’s presence was a gift to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 7, 1938, Lee spent her early years in the sun‑soaked San Fernando Valley of California before settling in Bremerton, Washington. She and her husband built a home, where she lived for 43 years. Wherever she went, she cultivated beauty—both in her surroundings and in her relationships. She was a woman of spirited creativity and boundless humor, with a love for life as infectious as her laughter. She had a rare ability to turn ordinary moments into cherished memories, leaving beauty and joy wherever she went. Lee was a gifted gardener, an imaginative interior designer, and a true culinary talent. Her home and garden—alive with color, lush greenery, and thoughtful detail—reflected her pride, her artistry, and her appreciation for beautiful things. Her vibrant sense of style was equally unmistakable, expressed through a wardrobe that matched her radiant personality. Above all, Lee believed deeply in the power of family and friendship. She built a community around herself—her tribe—and touched countless lives with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love. She is survived by her son Tracy Ford, her grandchildren Vanessa Barba, Devin Ford, and Anamara Johnson, and her great‑grandson Kona Ford, who will carry her memory forward. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Eugene Ford, her parents Will and Zelma Carew, her siblings, and her dear daughter Ylise Ford. We invite you to celebrate Lee’s life by sharing memories and photos on her memorial page. As we honor her, may we celebrate the extraordinary life she led, the love she gave, and the joy she brought into the world.