Mrs. Pauline Ford Padgett

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand". Isaiah 41:10: In humble submission to the Will of God, Miller Funeral Service and Crematory announce the transition of Mrs. Pauline Ford Padgett, 61 of Selma, AL.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 12:00 P.M. at Tabernacle of Praise, 850 Woodrow Ave., Selma, AL. Pastor Darrio Melton, Officiating. Public viewing will be Friday, September 12, 2025 from 6:00 P.M - 8:00 P.M at Miller Funeral Service Chapel. Instate and viewing Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 11:00 A.M - 12:00 P.M at Tabernacle of Praise. Interment in Ford Family Cemetery.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAULINE DOLORES FORD PADGETT
Pauline Dolores Ford Padgett was born on December 2, 1963, in Selma, AL to Deacon John A. and Versie Ford. She grew up in Perry County, AL where she created lifelong memories with family and confessed Christ at an early age at Oak Grove Augustine Baptist Church.
Pauline attended East Perry High School from 1976-1980. After graduating high school, she obtained her Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Alabama State University (Class of 1984). Pauline advanced her studies at Alabama Corrections Academy and began working as a Correctional Officer at Limestone Correctional Facility in 1985. Pauline wanted to fulfill all of her career goals, so she followed her life-long dream of serving in the Army, Navy, and Alabama National Guard as a Reserves Officer.
For most of her career, she served faithfully as a Probation and Parole Officer with the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. She quickly excelled to the position of District Manager and retired at a youthful age. Pauline exhibited a committed work ethnic and was devoted to "doing the job right the first time". She would be prepared to go out on home visits wearing her petal pusher pants and mule sandals with body armor. Pauline was currently working as a Retired State Employee with Pardons and Paroles where she assisted with prisoners' home plans and voters' rights.
From the moment Pauline learned she was going to be a mother; her heart overflowed with joy. Becoming a mother was one of her life's greatest blessings, and she embraced it with endless love and devotion. Her relationship with her daughter, Patrice, was not only one of mother and child, but also of true friendship. They shared laughter, long talks, and countless memories that reflected the special bond they had. Pauline loved to talk about her daughter to anyone who would listen, always beaming with pride as she shared her accomplishments, big and small. Some of their most cherished memories were made during their mother-daughter trips, where they explored new places/restaurants, deepened their bond, and created stories that will be treasured forever. Beyond the adventures and daily joys, Pauline instilled in her daughter a strong foundation in Christ. She led by example, living her faith openly and lovingly, and teaching her daughter the power of prayer, grace, and unwavering trust in God. To her daughter, she was not only "Mom", but also a confidante, role model, and best friend. Their bond was a rare gift that will live on in every memory and moment shared.
The legacy of her life will forever be felt through the love and strength she poured into her family. As the eldest of five children, Pauline naturally stepped into the role of caretaker, protector, and guiding light. She had an unwavering devotions to her siblings and parents, always putting their needs before her own and ensuring no one ever felt alone. Her family knew they could count on her in times of both joy and hardship, and it was through her steady presence that they found comfort, courage, and hope.
Pauline was truly the rock of the family-holding everyone together through life's many seasons. Whether it was organizing gatherings, offering a listening ear, or reminding her loved ones of the importance of staying close, she made family her life's work.
Pauline also lived a life rooted in service and joy. As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a YMCA Reach and Rise mentor, and substitute teacher, she touched lives through sisterhood, mentorship, and education. She also found great joy with her tennis family, lifting her voice in the church choir, and exploring the world through travel. In every space she shared her light, faith, and love for others.
On August 30, 2025, Pauline entered into eternal rest. Though her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, her memory and spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives she toughed. Pauline was preceded in death by her father, John A. Ford, Sr.
Her legacy continues as she is survived by her beloved daughter, Patrice Padgett of Dallas, TX; her loving mother, Versie Dobynes Ford of Selma, AL; her four siblings; John Jr. (Leisa) Ford of Brent, AL, Dr. Jeffery (Cheryl) Ford, Sr. of Montgomery, AL, Jennifer (Edward) Young of Selma, AL, and Jason Ford of Selma, AL; nieces and nephews; JaQuinta of Nashville, TN, Johntez of Birmingham, AL, Veronica of Huntsville, AL, Jeffery Jr. of Montgomery, AL, Aniyah of Brent, AL; great-nieces Jaycee and Josie; a host of extended family and friends who will carry forward her legacy of love, faith, and strength. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mrs. Pauline, please visit our floral store.