Shirley Ford, recently of Ocean View and Lewes, DE passed away peacefully August 8,2026 at The Lodge at Historic Lewes which had been her home for over 2 years. She leaves behind a lifetime of love, family, creativity and cherished memories that will endure for generations.
Shirley was born on January 2, 1936 in Pineville, WV, daughter of Ruby Garnette (Mullens) Cook and Moody Camden Cook, both of Mullens, WV, a town founded by her grandfather. Shirley was 2nd oldest of 8 children with 4 sisters and 3 brothers. She was a coal miner's daughter who was instilled with a deep sense of duty and hard work, helping her mother run the household and care for younger siblings. Her father called her 'Priss', an endearment that reflected their special bond, her quiet beauty, strength and sassiness. Shirley grew up with a love of learning. Her natural desire to nurture, encourage and care for others led her to earn a teaching degree at Concord College in Athens, WV.
Shirley found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved music, books, painting, gardening, shopping, taking pictures of flowers, drinking coffee, sneaking marshmallows, making (and hiding) peanut butter fudge and raggy robbins. Anything with country gravy was always good. She tolerated and cared for a wide range of pets that came and went. She loved the traditions and togetherness of holidays, especially Christmas. Shirley and Dale's home and family were at the center of their life and their door was always open for all to enter and join in the fun.
Shirley shared 67 years of marriage with her beloved husband Richard 'Dale' Ford, Sr. who preceded her in death on February 18, 2025. Their long marriage was a testament to a lifetime of love and partnership. They met through a cousin at college. After Dale's service in the Navy, they married and moved to Maryland where Dale earned an engineering degree at the University of MD while Shirley worked and cared for their first 2 children. They were dedicated to their Methodist faith, civic activities and their children. We kids were encouraged to explore the world, follow our dreams, be independent, kind and generous. Shirley is survived by her 4 children - Richard Jr. (Denise), Vicki (Joe), Mark (Michelle) and Camden (Kerri); her 9 grandchildren- Evan, Aerin, Katherine, Julia, Daniel, Christian, Isabella, Taylor and Nicholas and 1 great granddaughter, Lea. Shirley maintained a close relationship with her in-laws, many nieces, nephews and "grands".
Shirley was also preceded in death by her parents and all 7 of her siblings - Charlotte, Dixie, Sandy, Billie Jo, Sonny, Eddie and Estel. She has missed them all terribly and was heartened by the hope of a happy reunion.
Shirley, Mom, Grandma was dearly loved and will be deeply missed. She filled our world with sunshine. Her ashes will be laid to rest alongside her beloved Dale in Speedway WV.
Shirley's celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd from 2-4pm at The Lodge at Historic Lewes 1008 Kings Hwy Lewes, DE 19958. Please enter through the side entry lobby around to the right. Mom loved flowers, but in lieu of sending them, plant something in her honor or simply think of her among nature's beauty. Feel free to leave a message or share a memory about mom, grandma, Shirley
