Ava Blake Ford

Ava Blake Ford, a bright and beautiful light whose presence brought endless joy to all who loved her, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, at the tender age of 5. Born on January 22, 2020, Ava’s life, though far too short, was filled with love, laughter, and moments that touched the hearts of everyone around her.

Ava had a gentle spirit and a personality that radiated happiness. She adored getting her hair brushed and her nails painted, always lighting up when she felt pampered. Bath time was a favorite part of her day, and she loved being pushed in her wheelchair by her big brother, a simple joy that always made her smile. Ava found comfort in swinging, dancing, dressing up, and being surrounded by her family, especially her cherished grandmothers. She never missed a chance to smile when someone sang to her or blew bubbles her way, and she was happiest when she had the attention of those she loved.

Her favorite movies included Hotel Transylvania, Rapunzel, Hocus Pocus, and Pocahontas. Though nonverbal, Ava was remarkably smart, expressive, and full of personality. She especially loved Disney World.

Ava is survived by her loving parents, Trent and Mary Ashley Ford; her brothers, Hayden and Cru Ford; her grandparents, Elizabeth Rich, Tina and Roger Dale Sasser, and Greg “Pops” Hayes; and her great-grandparents, Benny and Wanda Buchanan and Margaret Easterly. She will also be deeply missed by her aunts and uncles, Erin Hayes (Ben Scott), Steven Hayes, Annie Stephens, Lilly Stephens, Gabe Stephens, Tiffany Edwards (Chad), Mary Beth Sasser, Gracie Sasser, and Ryder Sasser; her cousins, Grayson Hayes, Jackson Edwards, and Dawsey Edwards; her special cousin, Kelli Strange; and her great aunt, Susan (Max) Tyson. She also leaves behind a host of extended family members who loved her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her grandfather, David Goodson, and her great-grandparents, James Travis Mixon and Olbia Mixon.

Ava’s life was a gift—a beautiful reminder of the power of joy, resilience, and unconditional love. Her smile, her sweetness, and the light she brought into every room will forever be cherished.

We take comfort in knowing that Ava is now completely healed—running, jumping, playing, and doing all the things she could not do on this earth—resting in the eternal glory of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

A celebration of Ava’s life will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 2pm at Madrid Baptist Church, 283 Decatur Road, Cottonwood, AL, with Bro. Jayson Kirk officiating. The family will receive friends from 4-6pm on Saturday, December 13 at Sunset Funeral Home.