Jacob Daniel Ford, age 23, left this world peacefully Jan. 18, 2017, surrounded by family and friends. Saying goodbye hurt, it was hard and came far too soon. Sensing our absolute heartbreak, Jacob used his last moments to tell each and every person at his side "I love you." That's our Jacob-making the world kinder and gentler with every last breath.
Jacob went about his life focused on the things that were important to him and connection with others was the essence of Jacob. So many of us are afraid of being rejected, unsure of reaching out to others and worried about what others will think if we share a joke, an observation or even a hello. Jacob was unafraid. He was an ambassador of living life with your heart open to the world. He had a smile, a question and a joke ready for everyone he encountered, and if your favorite football team wasn't his beloved Broncos he would surely tell you (every time you met) about your team’s inherent inferiority.
It is impossible to adequately describe the magic that is Jacob Ford. people of all ages and walks of life remember him with tributes such as "my best buddy, Rad dude, hilarious, made me smile and laugh every time I saw him, unceasingly kind, best of the best, giver of pure unconditional love, heart of gold, gentle, beautiful soul, one of a kind, favorite human, finest friend, taught me so much, life loving. He was authentic and true and to know him was to love him.
Jacob was born Sept. 29, 1993, in Billings. He loved the Denver Broncos and was Senior High School's biggest fan. He looked forward to Special Olympics, Mustangs baseball and Bull's hockey. He spent countless hours at the Billings YMCA and many there were like his second family. The joy of his life are his niece Ona and baby nephew Rustin, his excitement and love filled the room when he saw them and wished he could "take them to meet Mickey."
We are blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Jacob during his 23 years among them, Go to the Y, buy a bunch of Gatorade and pass them to anyone that looks thirsty or might be having a bad day, When you trash talk someone’s favorite sports team it is best to do it with a twinkle in your eye. Being a good person is more important than winning the race. Sunday is reserved exclusively for football viewing. Be unashamedly passionate about things that make life fun.
Jacob is the beloved son of Beth and Ron Ford. Big brother of River Madison Ford. Proud uncle of Juliona and Rustin. Sweet grandson Of Ron and Lois Ford. Precious nephew of Dan Patterson (Gabby), Steve Patterson, Rene Cawley (Andrew), Jen Gates (Mike Walters). Fun cousin to Patrick, Reily, Zach, Hannah and Ryan.
In Jacobs memory donations may be made to the Billings YMCA.
Jacob teaches us that the gift that makes each of us unique and valuable is not (as society often tells us) fame, wealth, intellectual prowess, or strength but rather the extraordinary beauty of the human heart.
His family takes comfort from all the love he bestowed on this world and knowing that his beautiful eyes were donated so someone, somewhere, will see the world through this incredible man’s eyes.
We will miss you buddy!!!
A celebration of Jacob's life will be this spring so the sun can shine on our faces and all that love him can attend. Details will be posted on Jacob's and family websites and we look forward to seeing everyone that called him friend.