Ryland Ford Obituary (2003) - Richmond, VA - Richmond Times-Dispatch

Ryland Alexander "Alex" Ford

Ryland Ford Obituary

Ryland Alexander "Alex" Ford, 13, of Mechanicsville, passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2003. He is survived by his parents, J. Ryland Ford III and Teresa P. Ford; his maternal grandparents, Frank and Colette Jones of Mechanicsville; his paternal grandparents, Nell and Charlie Hawk of Oilville; two uncles, David L. Jones of Virginia Beach and Dewayne E. Jones and his wife, Galena of Mechanicsville; an aunt, Gail and Walter Westbrook of Waverly; six cousins, Madison, Brittany, Jasmine and Brandon Jones and Cameron and Austin Westbrook. Alex was a student at Chickahominy Middle School. A memorial service will be held 3 p.m. Sunday at the Atlee Chapel of the Woody Funeral Home, 9271 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ashcake Volunteer Rescue Squad, 8375 New Ashcake Road, Mechanicsville, Va. 23116.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Feb. 7 to Feb. 8, 2003.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ryland Ford

Not sure what to say?





Thinking about Alex will forever upset me to the core. Alex brought me inspiration to be a better tennis player, and now I can finally play tennis better in his name. I will never forget the times I had with Alex on the tennis court and every time I play I do it for him. Love you Alex and miss your presence every day!

Lb

January 8, 2021

Went to bed this evening with Alex on my mind, thinking what grown man he would've been, saddens my heart for you Theresa! Love you girl

joanne giovannetti

January 21, 2019

Im not sure if you both still look at this Mr and Mrs Ford but i just wanted to know your son is still on my mind. I volunteered today at the Speak Up 5k run and it made me think of Ryland. He and I weren't particularly close but he was my doubles partner on the tennis team in middle school. I cant pick up a tennis racquet without thinking about him. He was a great teammate and mentor to me as someone that lacked confidence during matches. He had a calm confident demeanor and i try to carry that with me today. I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine that feeling and now that my wife is pregnant with our first child i just pray that he or she has the same attitude, confidence and willingness to be a good person and teammate

Mark Johnson

Friend

September 8, 2018

Hey Alex and family,

All I think about is Alex it hurts to know that he is really gone and not coming back. Every 1 at school is posting signs and other memory things I always read them and wish there..... Any wayz hun I will miss you forever and I hate to say forever because forever is a very long time! If this gets to the parents eyes my dad said if you need any thing to call and ask no matter what it is , He's your old friend huck harris and he said he is very sorry about the loss and it feels like part of our family because he's known you for 30 years and he say not to hesitate to call.

Your friend ~kristi~ and always huck

P.s. happy Valentines Day I love ya man see ya in a while.............#746-0925#call if you need anything!!!!!

kristen harris

March 6, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford-

Our family was deeply saddened by your loss. Alex, or Ralex was a classmate of my daughter's all through elementary school and at CMS. She said he was very funny and always made people laugh,a good friend to all. My son refereed him in soccer and said he was a great player. He saw him often when he was working at Shady Grove Ice Cream Palor. He left a wonderful legacy of love and laughter with whomever he touched. You can be proud of that. Our lives were made richer because he passed our way. You will be in my prayers and Alex is in everyone's hearts that knew him. Sincerely, Beth Duncan

beth duncan

February 21, 2003

To the Ford Family and Friends:

My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I am deeply saddend by the loss of Alex. Alex was a student that always brought a smile to my face. It's a student like Alex that makes teaching so enjoyable. My class will not be the same now that he is gone. May God bless you.

James Edwards

February 17, 2003

Teresa & Ryland I'm so sorry for your loss I only coached Alex one year in soccer. I can say that If I ever had a son of my own I hope he would have been just like Alex! I still remember the game Ashley and Alex played together and he pushed her down in the mud. I think it was possibly her best game ever I think

she liked the attention from Alex, no matter what form it came in. Alex

was a wonderful, wonderful child Both Ashley and I will miss him.

Tim and Ashley Amos

Tim Amos

February 17, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford and Alex-



Although I did not know your son very well, it still felt that he was a part of my family, because he was always around. He was always there to help out my dad and there to compfort my older brother, Casey. Although Ryland Alexander Ford is no longer with us, I want you to know that he will be in my heart forever and will never be forgotton by myself or any members of my family. All that I can say is I wish you, Mr. and Mrs.Ford the best in the future. My family will always be there for you so just let us know when you need a friend.

Yours Truely,

Carey Billeter

Carey Billeter

February 16, 2003

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5&6

May you have the peace that passes understanding and the courage to go on.

With love and prayers,

Jean

Jean Daniel-Hurdle

February 12, 2003

hello. i learned of your loss today from bonnie messer who i have worked with for 7 yrs. i have worked with brad smallwood for 20yrs. i have put your names in the book of prayer at my church, first presbyterian, on cary street. the ministers have a 30 minute service every monday, wednesday, and friday. there is no answer for why, but faith that alex is with GOD will help you through this time..respectfully in HIS service, grier hudson

grier hudson

February 12, 2003

"Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light." - Helen Keller

February 12, 2003

Dear Teresa & Ryland, There are no words to ease you pain. We can only tell you how much we will miss Alex. He was such a sweet boy, always polite, sweet, and "up beat" We will ALL miss him. James-Blake will really miss him. He thinks alot of Alex. Alex has been in all of our hearts & minds. I will surely miss seeing his sweet smiling face, and miss him walking to the bus stop. He was such a WONDERFUL CHILD!!! I just can't beleive this as I am so sure you cannot!! This is such a tradgedy. I am so sorry for you both. I just hope you can find the strength to go on and find some kind of peace in this. I can not even begin to imagine what you all are going through!! Please know this, we are only across the street, if you need ANYTHING please call us. We will be there for you. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES,GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. Our love and prayers to you all,

Robin, Barry, Justin & James-Blake Hare

Robin Hare

February 12, 2003

Alex~

I didn't know you very well, but i still miss you so much! We all love you and miss you and i hope that you know that.

I love you so much!

~heather~

Heather Charwinsky

February 11, 2003

Dear Alex

we didnt kno you but we know how many people you left here cryimg for you everyone here LOVED you you might not have seen it but we were all here for you you will always be in our hearts ours and CMS!

Ryan @ Dankia

February 11, 2003

T.J. Daneker

February 11, 2003

Dear Teresa and Ryland,

What a privilege it has been to know you and your precious family. God has blessed us with many friends, and you are at the top of that list. Teresa, you have been a great tennis buddy, and I will never forget Alex's precious face watching our tennis clinics and matches. Thank you for sharing him with me and my family. You must live on now to continue sharing his memories with us, and we will see his beautiful face every time we look upon your beautiful face. Teresa, with Ryland's and your family support, you will become the best nurse ever! Your family is surrounded by love and support, and we will all pull through this together. May God's grace fall upon you and give you the peace and understanding you will need in the coming days. Thanks for always making everyone else feel special!



All our love and prayers, Debbie, Wayne and Cameron Clark

Debbie Clark

February 11, 2003

Mr. & Mrs. Ford: Even though I did not know your son, I can only imagine the pain and sorrow that you are going through right now. My prayers and thoughts are with you and please remeber that you have a very special person to turn to for comfort and strength and that the Lord Jesus Christ. He hears every cry and will help you through this very painful time. We all know that your son Alex is with him. I want you to know that I am here for you anytime you need anything just give me a call (730-7803). May God bless you and comfort you.

Your Neighbor Cheryle Ayscue

Cheryle Ayscue

February 10, 2003

Dear Family of Alex Ford

I did't really know Alex that good but i have seen him around school. I give all my prayers to you and the family as you are going through this difficult time.He will be missed dearly.He will always have a place to be in every one's heart. Miss ya Alex!!!!

Amanda Barnett

February 10, 2003

Teresa and Ryland,



Our arms are around you.



Vicki and Robbin Thompson

Vicki/Robbin Thompson

February 10, 2003

In memories of Alex. "Remember"

Remember me

with laughter.

For if you remember

at all.

Just remember

the good times we had,

but not sad, but glad.

Not small but tall.

Remember all!

Kristen & her Mom>

GOD BLESS YOU !!!!

kristen & Mom harris

February 10, 2003

Mr. and Mrs. Ford:



I am so sorry for your terrible loss. No words could even begin to express my sympathy. I didn't know Alex but I have a 10 year old son at Cold Harbor and I cannot imagine what your family is going through. I hope I never have to find out. Again, my deepest sympathy!!

Sherry Smith

February 10, 2003

To the Ford Family,

I was deeply saddened to hear of Alex's passing. I was his math and science teacher in fifth grade at WHES and, although I have moved away, I fondly and will always fondly remember Alex. He was a special and gifted young man and we will all miss him tremendously. The outpouring of love at the Memorial Service was truly touching and may the love, prayers, and support of everyone comfort you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Pam (Clark) Kahuda

February 10, 2003

Our hearts are deeply saddened. You and your family are in our prayers. We are just around the corner if you ever need anything.

Mark & Cherie Bates

February 10, 2003

"The family of Ryland Alexander ("Alex") Ford wishes to acknowledge the outpouring of love that has been extended to us. The beautiful memorial service on Sunday was marred only by the limited space in which to welcome the overwhelming attendance of so many who came to say good-bye to Alex. Many mourners were unable to sign Alex's guest books. The family would like to hear from you. Thank you all for your prayers, good wishes and show of support during this most challenging time in our lives. We will miss Alex."

The Family

February 10, 2003

"We Do Not Know the Whys"

For Alex, By Grandma Colette



Sometimes, God sends us a special child to light up this world. He endows them with a beautiful mind, good looks, great personality and many talents.



This child brings great pleasure & joy to many people. Mother, Dad, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. And brings light into their world.



God created this wonderful child. He came into our world 13 years ago. God made him so special. He could do so many things well.



From the time he was little, he was a "button cruncher." If he was riding in the car, you had to watch him. You never knew what button he'd push next. And maybe the trunk of the car might fly up.



And then as he got older, there was the computer. Poor grandmother got that too late. Alex would come over and change something. Grandma couldn't find the start button in the lower left-hand corner. After looking, she found it, now, in the top left-hand corner. When Grandma mastered that, the next time it was changed again.



He signed himself in but not off. Grandma didn't know what to do to get him off & herself on. She fussed and he thought it was funny (and I guess it was).



Oh, to have such a wonderful, bright mind. Grandma thought if he wanted to, he could have grown up to be president of the United States. That's a grandma for you.



From the time he was little, he was all boy -- whatever that means. At that time, he did NOT like girls - they liked him. I would meet him after school. And he would come out with some little girl trying to tag along beside him and get his attention.



But, of course, all that changed. He loved the girls by the time he was 12. Now, he wanted to spend $50 for Christmas presents, for a girl ... out of his own money! Of course, mother didn't let him. Because by Christmas he might have had another girl.



The only thing I know he didn't have any talent for was learning to play the piano. After taking him to lessons for 3 years (and he still didn't know his notes), I could stand it no longer. I sat in the car.



Of course, the big factor here was, he did not want to take piano lessons. Finally, I talked mother into letting him stop. I know the poor teacher must have been happy.



He loved to cook and wanted to open and heat up his own soup, mix up his own lemonade and help make brownies; I have many wonderful memories.



God blessed us when he sent Alex on this earth. But why, oh why, did he have to go so soon? Why God? Why such a short time? -- There must be a purpose that we are yet to learn. He was our blessing -- Why, God? Why?

Aunt Jackie

February 10, 2003

Colette Jones (maternal grandmother)

My prayers are with you and your family. Please accept my deepest sympathy.



Jane Ryan

Jane Ryan

February 9, 2003

I had gone to the beautiful memorieal servous and I had spoken in front of every 1. How Alex was the greatest kid and how I frist met him. I't hert to speak in front of 300 people but I'm glad I did now every 1 knows how Alex really was I't made me feel a little better to get it off my chest. (GOD BLESS HIM AND EVERYONE)

The people that did'nt even got to hear because they were stuck outside. " I't was soo nice and beatiful."

I LOVE YOU ALEX.

SIGNED< A FRIEND!!

kristen harris

February 9, 2003

To the family of Alex, We are the parents of Tim Amos, Grandparents of Ashley Amos and we want you to know our hearts are with you at this time. May God be with you in the following days and Bless you.



Dave & Margaret Amos

Va. Beach, Va.

Dave & Margaret Amos

February 9, 2003

I'm very sorry about Alex. He was a great guy, and he was always happy!! He was a wonderful friend.

I have cried alot of tears and the fuernal was very moving. Well, we all have to remember he is in a better place with god. I will pray for your family. My God Be With You and everyone in your family.

Brittney Parsons

February 9, 2003

mr.and mrs.ford

I am sorry for what you are going through but i and all of my friends will always remember and love alex as if he was still alive. god bless you and your family.

Jackie Jenkins

February 9, 2003

hey, alex I will always have you in my heart, and I will miss forever.

sara ricotta

February 9, 2003

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Ford,

Words can not express the sympathy and pain that I feel for you. As a parent, I can only imagine the pain and loss that you're feeling. I coached Alex at Atlee Little League in 1999. It was a great pleasure to have a kid with his desire and willingness to learn. Maybe in His own way God needed a person like Alex on His team. May God strenghthen and bless you and keep you in His care.

With Heartfelt Sympathy,

Ray Smith

Ray Smith

February 9, 2003

Dear Family and Friends of Alex,

To this day, I wake up every morning and cannot believe he is gone. Since Thursday, every night a movie of good memories roles through my head. Though all of our hearts our broken, we have to remember that he is alway's watching over us from heaven. My support goes out to the family of Alex. May he rest in peace. We love you Alex.

Matt Sanders

February 9, 2003

To the Ford Family,

I did not know Ryland (Ralex, Rylex)

as my daughter called him, but i felt like I did.He has touched so many hearts of the kids I know he will be missed. He must have been a great kid. My heart goes out to you and may God keep his loving arms around you through this very trying time and I hope each day gets a little better.

The Lewis' and daughter Lacey

Lynda Lewis

February 9, 2003

Although we have never met, I heard of Alex's death through family, I'm Kyle & Carmen Akers' aunt. I hope once the shock and pain subside, you will be able to find some comfort by honoring his memory. Even though he only had a short time on this Earth, it sounds as if he had many friends and made many smile...those are qualities to be proud of and take comfort in. Many are praying for your family, Blessings...Elizabeth

Elizabeth Nichols

February 9, 2003

To the Ford family~

First, GOD BLESS Yall!! Im sure this is the hardest for yall 2 go through~but your in the thoughts of many & alex will be in many peoples hearts & minds 4ever!! He ment alot 2 MANY people & Many tears have been shead Through his but it will get better.. REST IN PEACE ALEX!! I LUV U!!!! a friend of Alex's

~manda~

Amanda Belden

February 9, 2003

Hey babe! We all miss u as u prolly kno. and we're all prayin for u and ur family. muh heart goes out to ryland and teresa ford. u had a great kid, i should kno. well i love u ralex. i always will!

Lisa Klopp

February 9, 2003

Dear Ford family,

We all miss Ralex and we all loved him. He was a good friend to all and he always knew how to cheer people up. We all just want you to knwo that we all loved Ralex and he will be missed.

All of His Friends At Cms

All of His Friends At Cms

February 8, 2003

Dear Ford family,

I send you my condolences of one of the best people that I ever met my friend and your son Ryland. I have known Ryland for about six or seven years and I know that he has touched the heart of everyone he has met. Everyone at school loved him and he will be missed.

Kyle Hancock

February 8, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford,

I sent you a note last night but I must have done something wrong because it is not on the list. I taught at Advent Christian Nursery School for 24 years before retiring in June 2001 and Alex was in the nursery school 93/94 school year. Alex was such a terrific little guy. He had a darling smile like he was always one step ahead of me. He got along well with the other children and I enjoyed knowing him and working with him. When something like this happens we don't understand why but I do know that God was waiting with open arms for Alex. That same God will be there for you anytime you need him.

He'll even be there when you don't ask for help. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you progress in your grief process. Just remember to take it one hour at a time then 1 day at a time. You have a long journey but you can make it if you keep you eyes upon the Lord. You'll never know how many lives were touched by Alex and how many more will be influenced by you.

In Christian love,

Nan Rowe(the frog lady)

Nan Rowe

February 8, 2003

To the Ford family,

We know it must be hard for you to continue on with the day, but trust in God to get you through this. Alex was a wonderful friend, he was always smiling and laughing among his friends. Even though the grief is unbearable, stay strong. We will continue to pray for Alex and your family. Keep safe and God bless.

Preston Fox and Charles Case

February 8, 2003

~God bless all of u u will be in my prayers! Your a good friend alex we will miss you!~

Paige Randolph

February 8, 2003

hey!



I am so sorry about alex he was a GREAT guy and always made me and my friends laugh! I wish he had not do that but i know he is happy and in a better place!

Paige Randolph

February 8, 2003

To the Ford family,

I give my deepest condolences to your family in the wake of this tradgedy. We will miss him at CMS.You will forever remain in our hearts and praryers!

Charles Case

February 8, 2003

While we don't expect our words to ease the pain and trouble that is in your souls, we want you to know that there are dozens of people in your community who have never met you or your son, who grieve with you. Our prayers are heard by a merciful God, who loves each of you. Seek Him & feel His love and comfort in the loving arms of friends and family. God Bless you now and always.

Craig & Beth Duncan

February 8, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford,

Although I never really knew Alex, except when we were little and Teresa and my mom worked at the same restaurant, I know that he was so special and caring. Ryland and Teresa were always great parents and I cannot even imagine what they are going through right now. I am so sorry for your loss. Alex was so loved and he will be greatly missed. My family's and my prayers are with you.

Love,

Ellie Shingleton

Ellie Shingleton

February 8, 2003

Teresa and Ryland, You are such dear friends to Greg and I. I wish there was something that I can say or do to make the pain disappear. I pray that Christ will shower you with his love, mercy, and grace every day for the rest of your lives and hope that in time the good memories will overshadow the pain. A piece of our hearts have left with Alex, we will cherish our memories of him forever.

In Christ's name

Mary and Greg Akers

Mary and Greg Akers

February 8, 2003

To the ford family,

Alex was one of the best people and friends that I know. He had a great mind and heart and was always smiling. No matter what the situation, Alex will never be forgotten. He will always have a place in mine and everyone elses heart. May God be with Alex, and the Ford family.

Jeremy Savor

February 8, 2003

I just am so upset over this tragic moment in everyones lives. The loss of "Alex", Alex was the most joyful kid to be around. He would always make everyone laugh in gym, in lunch he was so funny. I can remember the times when I would win my softball games and go to "Dairy Queen" Alex would come over to the table and make funny noises so we would laugh. I don't know if I can ever go back in "Dairy Queen" it just won't be the same. As for Teresa & Ryland, you're doing great may god help you get through this safely.

GOD BLESS YOU "ALL OF YOU"

a friend **~kristen~**

kristen harris

February 8, 2003

My heart goes out to the family of Ryland. Although I did not now Alex for very long I knew he was a great person and someone to turn to when you were down i will miss you Alex

Again my heart goes out to anyone who had the chance to know such a wonderful person.

Joe Reger

February 8, 2003

Mr. and Mrs. Ford,

I left you a note earlier in the evening and I just couldn't stop thinking about Alex. I got out my scrapbook for the Nursery School year of 93-94. I found lots of pictures of Alex that I had taken.

If you would like to have any/or all

of the pictures they are yours for the asking. You can e-mail me or telephone me at 746-3009, any time of day or night.

In His name,

Nan Rowe

Nan Rowe

February 8, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford,

There is no way that we as humans can understand the "Why." But, if we acknowledge God's presence in our time of sorrow and trust Him, He will direct us on the path that brings us to a place of peace and comfort.

I share in your pain and sorrow, and that of your parents as well-even though we are strangers. The bond I have with you is simply the fact that I am a parent and a grandmother that has suffered loss.

With the understanding that there would never be an answer to "WHY", and putting my faith in God, he did bring me to a place of peace and comfort even in the first moments of my loss.

Trust in the Lord with allyour heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path. Proverbs 3:5

God be with you.

Bev Mazza

February 7, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford,

Alex was an extremely nice person. He always had a smile on his face. I will always remember the time I met him and the precious times we shared together. He will always have a place in my heart forever. I will never forget the things he said to me. He was very talented and had a lot going for him. I will always remember him. He was very special! God bless you!

Sincerely,

Shannon Hippeard

Shannon Hippeard

February 7, 2003

Dear Ford,

I didnt know Alex, but some of my friends did and I feel extremely sad for your loss. I went to his school, and I have heard that he was a great boy and he was nice to everyone. I know you are going through a rough time right now and my prayers are with you always. I will always think of him and I hope you can get through this.

Love Always,

Lauren Wheeler

Lauren Wheeler

February 7, 2003

You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time in your life.

Hope you feel some comfort from all the love that surrounds you. We are here if you ever need us.

Your neighbors and friends,

Terry, Greg, Ryan & Lauren Saller

Terry Saller

February 7, 2003

Mr. and Mrs. Ford, I'm soo sorry about what happened to Alex! He was a great friend to a lot of people! He always found a way to make someone smile when they were sad! He was a very fun person to be around and I don't know about everyone else, but I will never forget him, and I'll always remember the good times me and Alex had, especially at swim meets! no one will forget him!

Ann Randolph

February 7, 2003

Dear Mr. And Mrs. Ford,

I am sorry to hear the sad news about Alex. He was a good soccer player and friend. God Bless you and my prayers are with you at this time.

Brian Knausdorf

February 7, 2003

Hey kid, we will all be missing you at Chickahominy Middle, gym class wont be the same without the guy running up to the line and screaming and running back. WE had some good times Ralex, and your spot at the lunchtables will always be there for you. Love you.

Kristen Hinceman

February 7, 2003

Dear Ford family,

No words can describe the emotions and grief you all must be going through. I just moved here a month ago...and I am a 7th grade student at Chickahominy. I never met Alex, but I hear that he was a great kid, and that he would help anyone in need. I know that Alex is in His hands now. God Bless

-Kyle

Kyle Kowar

February 7, 2003

All of us at school are so sad we can't stop crying. A lot of us new him and new he was an exalent kid! We are keeping him in our prayers and his parents (Teresa & Ryland) We know he and God are watching down on us all. Hang in there teresa & Ryland.

chickahominy mid. friends

February 7, 2003

Hey it's us, we just can't get this tragic moment out of my heads. we have wrote tons of poems, so have our friends"your friends"

We loved you Ryalex!! ~Your friends Julia-kristen-ashley~ We will love you forever!:-( bye ... And still love you alex. Were also can't think of what Teresa and Ryland are going through he was such a great kid.

kristen harris

February 7, 2003

everybody will miss you alex. you were a good guy and an even better person. god bless alex and his family.

kacee kostek

February 7, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ford

Alex was a good friend and i will always remember him and how nice he was to us all.

Rick Simpson

February 7, 2003

May our thoughts and hopes be with the Ford family. Alex was a great friend to me

Amber Gaul

February 7, 2003

Dear Ryland and Teresa,



All I can say is that I am extremely sorry to read about your loss. Nobody else knows or understands just what your are feeling right now, unless they have had the misfortune to experience those same thoughts and feelings. There are very few words, if any, that will comfort you at a time like this.

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and the rest of your family.

My hope is you will find the peace and strength you need to help you get through it.



Sincerely,

Herbie

Herb Atkinson

February 7, 2003

Ryland and Teresa, our thoughts and prayers go out to you both at such a extremely difficult time. Jeremy and Alex have been friends sence T-Ball, he will be missed. May the lord be with you both and ease your pain.



Louis, Melanie, Jeremy and Emily

Louis Savor

February 7, 2003

We will always remember you. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family forever. We love you and we miss you!

Caitlin Schechter

February 7, 2003

we love you and will miss you very much ralex

Jessica Hodges

February 7, 2003

I know it is a tragety that he left our lives with so little imprints of the 13 years he was here. You may think he is dead, he is but only ot us, in reality you should this as him being born, born unto Jesus.One day we will be born unto him to and there at the pearly white gates we will see him standing there smiling.We must go on with our daily lives but never forget him.

Morgan Allen

February 7, 2003

Alex I'm sorry it ended this way. I wish I could see you one last time. The world will never be the same again.

Jesse Rutledge

February 7, 2003

Dear Ryland and Teresa,

It is so very hard to find the words to express how deeply sorry we are for the loss of "Alex". And even as I write this, I do so knowing that there isn't anything that can be said to take away the excruciating pain that you are feeling.

I know that Alex was a wonderful boy, and I know that you will miss him always, as will so many people who were blessed to have known him.

We want you to know that our thoughts and prayers will always be with you.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Bonnie Messer and Brad Smallwood

Bonnie Messer

February 7, 2003

Dear Ford Family,

Alex was a good and funny person.He will be in all of our paryers.

rick simpson

February 7, 2003

Dear Teresa:

I know none of this makes sense nor can any words can come close to telling how much my heart aches for you. Hopefully my prayers with the millon others that are praying for you will bring some comfort. Also, may our prayers guide you to our saviour Jesus Christ for true comfort, healing, and guidance. Alex will be forever alive in all of those he has blessed. I am here for you. Call me anytime.

Forever a friend,

Cindy

Cindy Gonzalez

February 7, 2003

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Ford: I don't know if this letter will reach your eyes but I pray and hope that it does. I have never met you before, but I heard of your loss through my father, Brad Smallwood, who is friends with Mr. Ford. Ever since I have heard of the tragedy, I have not been able to think of anything else. I know words cannot take away your pain but I want you to know that thousands of people, including myself, who do not know you and your family are thinking of both of you. I hope that all the thoughts and prayers from everybody will bring some peace into your lives.Once again, I am thinking of the both of you. Nichole Williams

Nichole Williams

February 7, 2003

Alex was one of my friends from a while ago.I hope everyone involved with him feels better.

RICK SIMPSON

February 7, 2003

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Britt Whaley

February 7, 2003

I know that words can never express how I feel about Ryland's passing away. He was a really nice guy to everyone. He was smart and funny. I wanted to send my prayers to the Ford family. I'm really sorry about your loss. Ryland was a great guy and we will all miss him.

Meagan Ludeke

February 7, 2003

Teresa, for a few years, you transported my children safely to and from Chickahominy Middle School. At that time, Alex would ride with you on the bus. Bo and Kristi would come home and tell the sweetest stories about Alex and what he did and said each day. They still remember that, and I am sure they always will. He touched their lives as I am sure he did countless others. May God be with you.

All our love and prayers,

Robyn, Bo, Kristi and Sara Johnson

Robyn Johnson

February 7, 2003

Alex, you will be in our thoughts and prayers forever and we look forward to seeing you again in heaven. God bless you and your family.

Mary, Greg, Kyle, & Carmen Akers

February 7, 2003

Hey Alex we will all miss you. You'll always be in my heart and mind. Class is not the same without you.

Alston Overton

February 7, 2003

Dear Ford Family,

I know what you must be going through, and how hard this must be on you. Alex was a great kid, and lived a great life. He always wore a smile, and was a friend to all who needed one. He is loved and will always be remembered.

-anonymous

February 7, 2003

Our daughter, Sarah, was a fellow student of Alex's. She is deeply saddened as we all are by this tragedy. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. God be with you and comfort you.

Paula, Phillip, Sarah & Logan Hancock

February 7, 2003

Teresa and Ry, There's not much to be said, or written, at a time like this, to help lighten a friend's load of grief and suffering. Please know how sorry I am at your loss, and that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your cuz, H.Ford

Henry Ford

February 7, 2003

To the Ford family,



We are deeply sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with you at this time.

Faculty and Staff, Oak Knoll Middle School

February 7, 2003

We are sorry to hear about your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.



Wells Family (Mechanicsville, Va)

Joy Wells

February 7, 2003

HANNAH KRAYNAK

February 7, 2003

Teresa, I was so sorry to hear about Alex. I cannot fathom the pain and sorrow you must be experiencing. You and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to call me. Alex was such a wonderful boy and I will miss him.

Mary Randolph

February 7, 2003

Jennifer Fountain

February 7, 2003

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cole Family

February 7, 2003

As a neighbor, and mother of a fellow Chicahominy student, I learned of Alex's death. Our family, and our neighborhood is deeply saddened by this loss, and all of our thoughts and prayers have been with your family. Many prayers will continue to be made. Please know that we would be glad to help in any way that you may need. We hope that in time you can find comfort from the pain of this tragic loss.



Marcelle, Bob, Christian and Meghan Anthony

Marcelle Anthony

February 7, 2003

Dear Ford Family,

Words can not express the sympathy and pain that we feel for you and your family. We are deeply saddened by the loss of your beloved son. Please know that our entire family is praying for you and that all of you are in our hearts during this time of sadness.

Sincerely,

Susan, Sherry, Sharon, Buddy, David, Michael and Evelyn Frith

Susan Frith Tansey

February 7, 2003

No mere words, spoken or written, can express the grief I feel for you both, nor can provide peace and comfort for your souls. My fervant prayer is that God, the only source of such relief, will be with you and sustain you through all. EDW

Eric Whitesell

February 7, 2003

My wife and I are terribly sorry for your loss. Both you and Alex are in our prayers.

John Tate

February 7, 2003

As a mother, I can only imagine the pain and sorrow the family is experiencing. I hope you can find some comfort in the Lord. May he send his angels to comfort you in your time of need.

Nancy Reid

February 7, 2003

Hey Alex we all love you and we will all miss you.

Sam Spence

February 7, 2003

As a member of the East Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad, I heard about Alex's death. Its very shocking. And very tragic. I can't imagine the pain and emotions that are running through the family right now. But, he is in very good hands now. Its just so sad that he had to depart us in such a manner. Hang in there.

Jennifer Jamison

February 7, 2003

Showing 1 - 96 of 96 results

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