A much-loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and resident of Independence, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the age of 72. Charles was born on December 9, 1953, and led a life of humble kindness and steadfast love.

Charles could do just about anything he set his mind to, using  his talents on all of his home projects. He embraced each day with a loving heart, especially for his family and for all the grandkids he was known to spoil. Charles was so loved by everyone who knew him for his laughter, his stories, and his comforting spirit.

Some of Charles's favorite times were making music, especially playing the guitar and singing, surrounded by his loving family or his loyal friends. Above all, Charles's deepest bond and complete devotion was to his wife of 55 years, Rita Ann. Her deep love meant the world to him and he was proud of the life they built together. A man of grace and positivity, Charles inspired so many who will cherish his memory and pass his kindness on to others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rita Anthony Ford; 3 daughters, Mary Stevens (Brad), Jennifer Marie Ard (Kevin), and Kimberly Clements (Kevin); 2 sons, Charlie Ford, Jr. and Willie Ford; grandchildren, Dakota Stevens and Slade Stevens (Heaven), Chet and Cade Ford, Karlie and Skylar Ford, Cara Kahl (Keegan), Linsey and Cale Ard, Peyton and Mollie Clements; great-grandchildren, Easton Newcomb, Willow Stevens, and Greta Klaire Kahl; and two sisters, Rachel Costanza and Charlene Mandella.

Preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Ford, Sr. and Eva T. Jones; siblings, Marie "Peggy" Miceli, Eva May Corney, Leona Crowe,  Easter Costanza, Betty Marie Morris, Lee Jones, Bobby Jones, C.T. Jones,  Johnny Jones, Wallace Ford, Jr., and Annie Ford; and daughter-in-law, Christy Overmier Ford.

Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00 a.m. until Religious Services at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Services will be conducted by Rev. Ronnie Douglas. Interment will be at Eliza Lee Cemetery, 11130 Eliza Lee Cemetery Road, Folsom, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.