Michael D. Ford Obituary in Sarasota at Jones Funeral Home

Obituary For Michael D. Ford

As a child, Michael attended Sarasota County Schools where he graduated from Sarasota High School, Class of 2005. At an early age, Michael had an encounter with God when he served as a Junior Usher under the leadership of his aunt, the late Sheila Jackson-Brown. Not only did he serve in his church, he also served in his community where he became a hometown legend and icon.

As a Sailor senior in 2004, he set the state’s single-season prep record and scored 37 touchdowns. He ran for 200 or more yards in 11 consecutive games, a Florida record. He was ranked number seven in the top 100 all-time football players from Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties; however, in the hearts and minds of his family, friends, and fans, he was always Number 1.

After high school, he was a student-athlete at Hargrave Military Academy, a Junior College in Mississippi, and the University of South Florida. From 2007-2009, he averaged 10.4 yards per carry, the fifth-most in program history. Professionally, he went on to play for the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts, before transitioning to a career as a professional boxer. Mike’s professional boxing record was 6-2, with 5 knockout wins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Ford Jr.; his grandmothers, Helen Jackson and Alberta Jackson; his grandfathers, Nathaniel Jackson and Robert Ford Sr; and his aunts, Vickie Jackson Spradley and Sheila Jackson-Brown.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Dondra Jackson; his siblings Deondra and Robert; his children ZhaMari, Michael Jr., Aniyah, Delondra, Jamicah, Lyndon, Ryan, Ginott St. Fleur, Gino St. Fleur, Ameerah, and Stephon; his fiancée Cycharo Monts; his godsister Otiona; his aunts Tiffany, Evelyn, Camilla (Kane), Janie, Patricia, Rosalind, Dorothy, Irene, and Shirley; his uncles Timothy (DD), Anthony, James, and Steve; his great aunt Sarah Smith; honorary grandmother, Julia “Brownie” Hugan; and a host of family and friends.

The legend continues.

Visitation will be held from 6:00pm-8:00pm on Fri., May 24, 2024 at Jones Funeral Home. Services will be held 12:00pm on Sat., May 25, 2024 at House of God Church. Burial will be held at Palms Memorial Park. Funeral arrangements by Jones Funeral Home.

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Ocean Breeze Spray was sent for Michael D. Ford - May 22, 2024

Send flowers for Michael D. Ford

I love my daddy i know he's forever watching over us. it's crazy this is reality.

Zha’Mari

Hello my great friend Dondra and the Ford family SENDING my condolences to you all I am gonna miss that beautiful young man he was one of my favorite people and I am so sorry for your loss Dondra and you are always in my prayers and my heart Love you much 💞💋🌺❤️😔

Dondra my Heartfelt Condolences Prayers and Sympathy for your loss I didn't know Mike but His athleticism was well known his Smile reminds me of you and that says a Lot as a Mother.. I Pray God gives you the Strength to get thru you thru this moment and days to come.May the Love you have in your Heart keep you with Beautiful Memories to keep you Smiling..🙏🏽♥️

I first crossed paths with Mike Ford in 1998, a year ahead of him, when I was a 7th grader and he was a bright-eyed 6th grader at Brookside Middle School. Throughout those formative years, Mike's infectious smile lit up the hallways, and his love for football was palpable. I remember vividly his cousins, Amari and Jabari; they held the same candor of sports acclimation and great personalities that always kept a smile on people's faces. Their athletic prowess echoed Mike's own passion for the game. His anticipation for high school football was palpable; he couldn't wait to prove his mettle on the field.
During our high school years, we would often cross paths, exchanging jokes and laughter. Mike would tease me about taking all those "smart kid classes," but there was always warmth and camaraderie in his jests. He'd playfully say, "If I make it big, I'm coming to you!"
Those years were also marked by the SNN 6 highlights, where Mike and his cousins showcased their incredible skills, bringing pride to Sarasota.
Even though I was miles away in New Jersey during my college years, I made sure to catch the USF games, eager to see Mike dominate the field.
With Mike's untimely departure, we're left with memories of a journey lived passionately—a legend among us. As he ascends to heaven, he leaves behind an irreplaceable void.
With deepest respect,
Will Russell Cypress, TX

One thing you could always count on....Mike showing up and having a good time. If you needed a laugh, bro was sure to deliver. R.I.P. fam.

Charles l. Harvey

Cuz you never judged me despite what was said about me. Rather truth or lies you never changed. Rest cuz

To Dondra and family I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you all lifted in prayer during this time. My condolences to you all.

Mike you were always there with a smile and encouragement.The last time we talked you were excited about the fight you had upcoming in arkansas.tom packer....

Thanks for being that good spirit that made me laugh when I was down. You called me everyday to check on me. You helped me find my career on barbering. I'm just glad I could give you your flowers before you left this earth. ~ Chris Merrick

Thank you God for blessing the earth with such a beautiful spirit I pray that he returns to his father God Almighty Amen! 🙏🏾 Long live Ford Tuff -Furlow

My brother ! We always had each others back. We was raised up together I love you forever You were Heaven sent Thank you for everything Your energy will never die Long Live Ford Tuff .

Cuz we hung out when we linked up it was never a dull moment ima miss you cuz love u till we meet again

Lee

Mike always light up any space when you're around him it was never a dark moment. Mike would always make people laugh, encourage his family and friends and always showed what hard work gets you in life and that is winning. I love you Mike and rest up bro and dance for the Lord. - Malik Holley

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.I know how much Mike's smile brightened everyone's day.

Cuzin u always make people smile and we are going miss u

Send my condolences to the Ford family sorry for your loss your in my prayers you and that beautiful smile will be missed 💟

With much love and condolences to Ford family, words can't explain the pain I have with each of you. He is in good hands. Rest my big chocolate baby.
Love your sister Chick