Obituary

In Loving Memory of Alonzo Christian “Chris” Ford Jr., March 24, 1943 – October 9, 2025

A Life Well Lived

Alonzo Christian Ford, Jr. (“Chris”) passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on March 24, 1943, to Phyllis Baughan Ford and Alonzo Ford, Sr., Chris lived a full and spirited life marked by laughter, hard work, and devotion to the people he loved most.

Chris was a natural jokester – always ready with a quick wit, a clever prank, or a laugh that could fill a room. He loved life, his wife, his children, and especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.

A true entrepreneur, Chris always worked for himself and took great pride in his work. Over the years, he owned several successful businesses in the Richmond area, including Red Ford and Son with his father, Cellular Associates, and most recently Alarm Systems of Richmond, which he ran until his retirement in 2019.

He had two speeds – Energizer Bunny and snoring – and could fix just about anything. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening, and feeding (and filming) the wildlife around his home. Chris was also an avid sailor, often chartering sailboats with his wife, Pat, and their friends throughout the years – always an adventure on the water. He and Pat loved traveling together in their RV, making multiple trips across the country and returning home with new stories and lifelong friends.

A creative inventor at heart, Chris even sought patents for some of his ideas. He was resourceful, curious, and endlessly generous – always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh.

Above all, Chris was a proud husband, father, and grandfather. He was deeply devoted to his family and took immense pride in their accomplishments, celebrating each one with love and enthusiasm.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Phyllis and Alonzo Sr. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Patricia; daughter, Kelly (Danny); son, Bryce (April); honorary daughter, Robyn (Jerome); grandchildren, Kevin, Daniel (Bella), Emily, Krista, and Hunter; sister, Sharon (Pete); and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Chris leaves behind a legacy of laughter, determination, and heart – a reminder to work hard, love deeply, and always find joy in life’s everyday moments.

“Those we love don’t go away; They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near – Still loved, still missed, and very dear.”

A celebration of life for Chris will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 2:00 pm, followed by a reception at Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Services, 6500 Iron Bridge Rd. N. Chesterfield, VA 23234