Mr. Kyle Sharif Ford
Mr. Kyle Sharif Ford
Mr. Kyle Sharif Ford, born June 18, 1967, in Panama City, Florida, to Walter and Louise Ford, entered into eternal rest surrounded by love and faith, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, September 12, 2025 at Bay Medical Center in Panama City.
Kyle's spiritual journey began early in life as he was christened and baptized at Greater Bethel AME Church. His faith remained a guiding force throughout his life, shaping the way he lived .... with service, compassion, and humility.
From a young age, Kyle discovered two passions that stayed with him forever: a love for fast cars and motorcycles, and a God-given gift for working with his hands. Whether it was repairing an engine, restoring an appliance, or lifting a discouraged heart, Kyle embodied the spirit of Isaiah 58:12: "You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwelI in."
Kyle graduated from Rutherford High School in 1985 and continued his education at Pensacola Junior College, where he earned a Dental Prosthetics Certification. His professional journey was as diverse as it was impactful as he worked as a dental technician, service technician, paint store manager, and small engine repairman.
Family remained at the center of Kyle's life. Following the passing of his beloved mother, Louise, he devoted himself to caring for his grandmother, Vassie Donald, and later his father, Walter. His dedication ensured their comfort, dignity, and well-being until their final days.
Ultimately, Kyle found his true calling as an auto mechanic. What began as small favors for friends and neighbors grew into his own auto repair business, built on honesty, integrity, and trust. Many turned to Kyle after paying for repairs elsewhere and leaving disappointed. With skillful hands, fair pricing, and a caring heart, Kyle not only fixed their vehicles but also restored their faith in people.
Another of Kyle's lifelong gifts was his culinary artistry. More than a hobby, cooking was a way he expressed love. With the acumen of a gourmet chef, Kyle turned everyday meals into memorable experiences. He delighted in preparing food for family, friends, and neighbors. He was always eager to share both a plate and his "kitchen secrets." His meals nourished not just the body, but the soul, leaving those who gathered around his table feeling cared for and connected.
Known as a pillar of the community, Kyle's kindness and generosity touched countless lives. Whether repairing vehicles, preparing a home-cooked meal, offering advice, lending a listening ear, or entertaining with his humorous storytelling, he gave of himself freely and unselfishly. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us: “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” Kyle embodied this truth, always pouring into others with joy humility.
Family remained at the center of Kyle’s life. Following the passing of his beloved mother, Louise, he devoted himself to caring for his grandmother, Vassie Donald, and later his father, Walter. His dedication ensured their comfort, dignity, and well-being until their final days.
Kyle's legacy is one of service, laughter, love, and, nourishment. Whether through his gifted hands under a hood with his encyclopedic knowledge of mechanics or his masterful touch in the kitchen, he will be remembered as a devoted son, a caring grandson, a committed uncle, a trusted friend, and a man who never hesitated to help those in need. Like 1 Peter 4:10 teaches: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." Kyle used his many gifts to serve, and in doing so, left behind a community forever better because of his presence, his generosity, and his faithful heart.
While his parents Walter and Louise, and his grandmother Vassie Donald, preceded him in death, Kyle's life and legacy continue to shine through all who were blessed to know him and his service.
Kyle leaves to cherish his memory his loving brothers, Roderick "Ricky" Ford (Verona) and a cousin as close as a brother, Keith Bowers (Valerie); his treasured nieces Shaia Simmons (Willie), Alicia Ford(Brandon), and Candice Rowe; his cherished great nieces and nephews Tre, Amerie, Chloe, Aundraya, Shailoh, Champ, and Truth; his goddaughter, Akia Rice and grand goddaughter, Avianna Rice; and a close companion Sabrena Harvis.
He is also remembered by his three aunts, Shirley Hudson Govan, Shirley Woodson, Constance Bowers Cross (Dave), his uncle, Billy Cogman(Hattie); and his special cousins, Annie Jewel Johnson(Arthur), Lovoria Ofuani, Jennifer Forrest, Gail Bowers Simpkins (Terry) and Cathy Bowers Sheetz (Micheal).
Kyle also leaves behind countless family members, along with dedicated lifelong friends including Vicki Dudley Keys, Willie B., Stump, Bill, M. Fox, D. Lee, neighbors, customers, Millville (the Ville) and Motorhead Community members whose lives he touched with his generosity, craftsmanship, and kindness.
Funeral services were held, Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Greater Bethel AME Church in Panama City, Florida under the directions of Christian Memorial Chapel of Graceville, Florida.