Dennis Lee Ford

Dennis Lee Ford, 78, of Arp, Texas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, wisdom, and deep love for his family and community.

A proud Texan, Dennis devoted much of his life to serving others, as evidenced by a career spanning more than four decades with the Texas Health & Human Services Commission. Through his many roles, he faithfully served the citizens of Texas with dedication and integrity. He also gave generously of his time and leadership through the Kiwanis Club, where he served as Lieutenant Governor. Locally, he made a lasting impact as President of the Arp ISD School Board, championing education and caring deeply about the success of every student.

Dennis continued his commitment to public service as both councilman and mayor of Arp, always placing the needs of his community first. He treasured the relationships he built and took immense pride in his hometown.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Dennis served his country during the Vietnam War. Known for his remarkable intellect, it was often said that he had "forgotten more than most will ever know." Yet despite often being the smartest person in the room, he carried himself with humility, offering nonjudgmental guidance, remaining endlessly curious, and lifting others up along the way.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Dennis was a man of character, humor, and unforgettable quirks. He had a deep love for the color purple, classic rock and roll, wrestling, dogs, roses, and cheese. A collector at heart, he gathered everything from condiment packets to coins and toolsets. He found joy in life's simplest pleasures and was known for his playful spirit-timing races, dressing as Santa Claus, riding in floats, and waving in his own unmistakable way. And, of course, he was never without his signature ponytail.

Dennis was also a devoted father who believed deeply in accountability and strong values. He held his children to high standards, even if that meant turning them in to the principal after they had gotten away with being tardy for over a month. It was all part of the love, guidance, and life lessons he instilled in those closest to him.

He would have cherished the opportunity to offer one final farewell to all whose lives he touched, with his familiar words: "Glad you got to see me!"

Dennis is survived by his wife, Kelly Ford; his children, Marion "Pete" Ford, Morgan Ford Brunketurner, Alisha Ford, Jarrod and Sara Guyer, Jessica Torres, Jordan and Erica Torres, and Joel and Ariel Torres; his grandchildren, Saben Hinckley, Tasgall "Tuck" Brunketurner, Elizabeth Brunketurner, Sarah Brunketurner, Savannah Ford-Myers, Abigail Ford-Myers, Ayla Guyer, Ethan Guyer, Stevie Guyer, Adrian Riley, Sophia Torres, Caroline Torres, Magnolia Torres, and Kameron Torres; and great-granddaughters, Eden Hinckley and Amiyah Dhaurali.

He is also survived by his siblings: Henry Ford, Jerry Ford, Dorcus and Mike Melia, Rick and Priscilla Ford, William and Betsy Ford, Peggy Alford, Donald and Stephanie Ford, Ruth and Rick Etheridge, and Donna and Elmer Hudson, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Dennis was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In honor of Dennis, the family asks that you raise a toast to "the old man," cherish time with your loved ones, and carry forward the laughter, lessons, and love he shared so freely.

Services and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dennis Ford Scholarship Fund, to be administered through the Arp Garden Club, c/o Connie Davis, 22834 State Highway 64E, Troup, TX 75789, continuing his support of his beloved community.