Roy Matthew Ford

Roy Matthew Ford was born on October 31,1947 to the union of Albert Sr. & Mary Ford in Newark, NJ.

Roy received his formal education in the Newark Public School System. An athletic standout, Roy enrolled in the US Marine Corps after high school. Like many of his generation who enlisted he was sent to war. Deployed in Vietnam he served 2 tours before returning home.

Working as a long haul truck driver for over 20 years, Roy hauled groceries up and down the east coast. He provided for his family and children.

Roy was married, divorced, then remarried in 1999 to Cheryl A. Stewart. He married "The Love of his life", accepted Christ in his life and joined New Point Baptist Church.

Roy suffered a major stroke in 2011, causing his early retirement. The stroke resulted in paralysis on his right side as well as causing him to lose the ability to speak. Although crippled physically, mentally he was still very much Roy! Lively, laughing, honest, goofy, loving. The comfort he provided to anyone who visited, the laughter, the silly looks, messing with the nurses and attendants, very much Roy!

Roy departed this life on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert Sr. & Mary Ford, as well as by his siblings Albert Jr., Gail, Jane, & Leona Ford.

He leaves to cherish his memory:

His wife Cheryl A. Stewart-Ford

His sons Darren and Kevin Ford

His daughters Aja-Brianne Harriott and Rene

His god-daughter Ashanti Johnson

His granddaughters Nia, Makayla, and Jelani

And a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of Roy Matthew Ford. Leave a message on the Tribute Wall to share your favorite memories and offer words of sympathy and comfort.