Funeral service for Mr. Everett Ford Jr., 85 of Killeen, TX will be held Saturday, August 26, 2023, 12:00 p.m.at Chisolm's Family Funeral Home in Killeen, TX.  A private family interment will be held at a later date.

Viewing will be held two hours prior to the service (10:00 a.m. – 12:00p.m.) at the funeral home.

Mr. Ford passed away August 16, 2023, in Killeen, TX.

Whoever wrote "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" did not meet Mr. Everett Ford, Jr., a man who brought joy and kindness to all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Born on September 28, 1937, in Clarksdale, MS, to parents Edward Ford and Elizabeth Tolbert. Everett was the eldest of three children. His siblings Frances Harper and Henry Ford preceded him in death. Throughout his life, Everett embraced the belief that every day was a reason to smile, which was evident from the moment of his birth; likely smiling that very day so much that the midwife was so astonished and made an oversight that led to the 72-year misconception that his birthday was on October 8th, 1938.

Education held a special place in Everett's heart, and he instilled that passion in his children. One of the fondest memories his children cherish was the annual back-to-school shopping trips he took them on, he came armed with bags filled with FOUND pencils, pens, and notepads. Everett's own educational journey took an interesting turn in third grade when he came across another student with the same name who often took his books due to his reading difficulties. It was then that Everett decided to change his name from Edward to Everett, a mystery that continued until the Social Security Administration eventually solved it.

At the age of 15, Everett's life began to change. Lela Tolbert, one of his aunts, came and picked him and his siblings up and took them to Memphis,TN, to escape the prevalent racism and abuse of the time. After a brief stay in Memphis, Everett set his sights on Michigan University, where he pursued a business degree for two years before finding his true home in Illinois. There, he embarked on a fascinating career journey, starting as a sous chef at Mundelein College and later transitioning to a business manager role within the food service department.

While enjoying his time at Mundelein, Everett cherished the friendships he made and embraced every invitation he received, whether it was to a dinner party, social gathering, baby shower, or church event. He saw these occasions as opportunities to expand his knowledge and connect with others. Despite being Baptist, Everett showed respect and interest in other faiths, including Catholicism (Roman and Orthodox), Judaism, and the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Everett's love for travel took him to various corners of the world. From helping build a water reclamation system in Taygatay, Philippines, to being one of the first responders after the earthquake in Haiti (the details of how he got there remain a mystery), Everett sought adventure and cultural enrichment. He visited destinations such as Quebec, where he may have even crossed paths with the Blackfoot tribe and borrowed some of their traditional attire. His joyful spirit shone in Johannesburg, South Africa, Jamaica, California, Tennessee, Maryland, New York, and most recently, Cancun, Mexico, where he celebrated at a wedding.

In 1965, Everett married the lovely Miss Lillie Avant, and their union blessed them with a daughter, the incomparable Deborah Ford. Although their wedded bliss didn't last, Everett and Lillie remained friends throughout the years.

During his time working as a security officer, Everett had the opportunity to meet the Masonic brothers as he provided security for them. Quickly rising within the ranks, he went from outside the gate to a seat at the table as a 33° Master Mason, dedicating himself fully to his duties until his final days.

It was through one of his Masonic brothers, Richard Baines Sr., that Everett met Richard's daughter, Patricia Ann Baines, a Debutante and scholar. They married on July 6, 1973, and started a family that brought them immeasurable laughter. Three children were born to this union. Their relationship, akin to the song "Is you is, or is you ain't my baby..." known for its ups and downs, was filled with unforgettable moments.

In 2015, after becoming an amputee, Everett welcomed a new friend into his life, Charlie, his prosthetic leg. Together, they embarked on countless adventures, from tree climbing to unauthorized construction work, taking the 'elderly' on field trips, assisting grandchildren with their assignments, and even cutting grass. Everett refused to let his disability hinder him. Soon after, his service animal, Lolli, joined the dynamic duo, creating even more memories.

To honor Everett's legacy of goodwill, charity, kindness, and love, his children Deborah, Eulalia (Thomas), Zorina (LaVon), and Everett III (whose name is still subject to debate) carry the torch. Additionally, he leaves behind ten grandchildren, a few of whom he fearlessly taught how to drive—Maleia (Carson), Miyanni, Demarcus, Azzaria (Nicholas), Sterling, Ariel, Kimora, Elliott, LaVon II., and Devon. One super great-grand, Leila Iya Ewing, his niece Mollie Harper, great-nephew Elijah, and a multitude of cousins, including his special cousin LaVerna, other relatives, and friends also mourn his passing.

Though his breaths became limited and not knowing which one was going to be his last, he was still a beautiful, easy-going spirit. He was a free spirit. He always had a smile and lived life out loud, even in his final moments. Some of the last words that he spoke to his niece were "I want you to do one thing for me young lady....get my leg for me." He wanted to be free.

And now he is...