Donald Ray Ford, age 74, of Amarillo, passed away on September 7, 2026.

Donald was born on March 25, 1952, in Santa Barbara, California, to Loran Eugene and Ruby Christine Modisette Ford. He grew up in California and graduated from Rio Mesa High School in 1970.

Donald married Janis Haberman in 2005, and together they made their home in California for many years. While living there, Donald worked as a psychiatric technician. In 2008, Donald and Janice moved to Amarillo to be closer to family. Sadly, shortly after their move, Janice passed away.

Donald later went to work for the Amarillo Globe-News, where he remained until its circulation operations were discontinued. He then worked as a stocker at Walmart until his retirement.

Following the loss of his wife, Donald settled into a quiet and private life, finding contentment in the simple things he enjoyed most. He was an avid reader who could often be found with a James Patterson book in hand, and he loved working puzzles of just about any kind. He was also a fan of classic television Westerns, especially Gunsmoke. Donald was comfortable with a peaceful routine and enjoyed spending his time surrounded by the familiar things that brought him happiness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Loran and Ruby Ford; his beloved wife, Janice; and two brothers, James Ford and Loran Ford Jr.

Donald is survived by his sisters, Mary Miller of Amarillo and Donna Clark and husband Tom of Mohave Valley, Arizona; his nephew, Matthew Miller and wife Rebecca of Oxnard, California; his nieces, Andrea Davis and husband Jared of St. George, Utah, and Jessica Lynch and husband Glen of Colorado Springs, Colorado; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and other extended family members.