On Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, Charles Thomas Ford gathered his instruments and headed towards the heavenly choir. Born June 27, 1947 in Smithfield to Mary Etta Wellons Ford and Charlie Ford, Charles was the former executive secretary and minister of music for Main Street Baptist Church for more than 40 years. Charles was a 1965 graduate and class president of Westside High School, and attended of Norfolk State University.  He was a musical icon in Hampton Roads that touched the lives of many area musicians and vocalists.  He served as a former president of the Hampton University Choir Director’s and Organists’ Guild.

Survivors include sisters Edna Ford Powell and Martha Ford Evans Jackson; nephews and nieces, Julian Evans, William and Tracey Powell, Charles and Tanesha Powell, Danielle D’Amico Lawrence and Mary D’Amico Gentile; grand-nephew and grand-nieces, Cameron Powell, Amaya Powell and Kailyn McMilan; special cousin, Glender Wellons who preceded him in death; and many other cousins, friends and church family.
A celebration of life service will be held Friday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m. at Main Street Baptist Church Smithfield. Viewing will be held Thursday, Dec. 14, 4-7 p.m. accompanied by music and reflections from 5:30-7 p.m. also at Main Street Baptist Church.  Professional services entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.