Vivian Ruth (Sheats) Ford

Vivian Ruth Ford, 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family by her side.

Born on July 23, 1932, in Rock Creek, Ohio, to Leonard and Elizabeth (Muse) Sheats, Vivian grew up with a strong sense of family that shaped every part of her life. A proud graduate of Jefferson High School’s Class of 1950, she married her one true love, Keith Ford, on February 25, 1956. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage — a lifetime filled with devotion, laughter, and treasured memories.

For Vivian, her greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother. Her daughter Lori Ford and son Russell (Darlene) Ford were the center of her heart, and she took endless pride in the family they built. That love blossomed even more with her three granddaughters — Amanda (Matthew) Van Wormer, Emily Ford, and Caitlyn (Russell Retallick) Ford — who filled her days with happiness and laughter. Time spent with them and later with her great-grandchildren — Colette, Edison, Lydia, Evelyn, and Vivian — was the true joy of her life.

A lifelong resident of Jefferson, Ohio, Vivian showed her caring spirit in all she did. Her talent for cooking blessed countless people as she worked in several local restaurants, where her kindness and delicious meals made everyone feel at home. She enjoyed reading, tackling jigsaw puzzles, and creating crafts, finding peace in life’s simple pleasures.

Vivian was a devoted member of Jefferson United Methodist Church and gave generously of her time, volunteering with ACMC for over 20 years, as well as with the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the American Red Cross Bloodmobile.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Keith, her brother Leonard Sheats Jr., and her sisters Helen Benham and Dorothy Lytle. She leaves behind a legacy of love that lives on through her family — her constant source of joy.

In accordance with her wishes, private graveside services were held at Lenox Center Cemetery.

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