Mitchell Leroy Ford

Mitchell Leroy Ford, 60, of North Carolina, passed away on October 28, 2024.

Mitchell was born on May 21, 1964, in Solano, California, to Nancy and Clyde Ford. He spent much of his life in DeLand, Florida, and some time in Lakeland, Florida, before settling in North Carolina. He most recently worked as a category manager at Fresh Market, where he led with a passion for helping others and fostering growth in the bakery department.

Outside of work, Mitchell enjoyed playing the drums, skateboarding, and working out. He had a deep love for his family, showing his dedication through hard work to provide them with a better life and childhood than he himself experienced. Though a quiet man, he was keenly observant and expressed himself beautifully through written notes and poems. Known for his good sense of humor and his compassion for those facing challenges, whether in sports or in life, Mitchell approached every setback with resilience, ultimately building an inspiring comeback story of his own.

He was always supportive yet firm, a source of sound advice for those close to him. He instilled a strong work ethic in his children, shaping them to face life with determination and integrity. Mitchell is survived by his mother, Nancy Carolyn Ford; his three children, Chloe, Zack, and Aaron Ford; and his siblings, Kim M. Ford, James Michael Ford, Norman J. Ford, and Jeffery C. Ford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the ASPCA in his honor.