Leona C. Ford

Mrs. Leona C. Ford, age 89, an Ilion resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, March 10, 2024 in the loving care of the Angels at the Abraham House, Rome, New York.

Leona was born in Little Falls on June 26, 1934, daughter of the late Stephen and Mary (Macykur) Cornish.  She was united in marriage to Donald L. Ford on May 9, 1953 in Little Falls, a blessed union of 60 years, until Mr. Ford’s passing in 2014.  Mrs. Ford was last employed with Redco Foods, Little Falls.  She attended and graduated St. Mary’s Academy, Little Falls.  She remained active in the community belonging to the Mohawk American Legion Auxiliary and a lifetime member of the Herkimer Polish Home.  Leona enjoyed sewing and gardening in her spare time. 

She leaves her son, Harry Ford of Herkimer, her daughter, Sharon Purpura and husband Vincent of Croghan, NY, son, Orville Ford of Herkimer; cherished grandchildren, Ginger, JoAnn, Diedra, Michael, Elizabeth, Santina, and Charlie; adored great grandchildren, Jessica, Jenna, Macie, Kaylee, Giusella, Eliana, Olympia, Vincenzo, Cora, and Gunner; many nieces, nephews, cousins.  Leona was preceded in death by her siblings, Ann, Mildred, Joseph, Stephen, Jr., Nester, Connie and Julia. 

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no calling hours.  The family will gather privately to say goodbye at the locally/family owned Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, between Little Falls and St. Johnsville, 315-508-5131.  A private graveside service commencing in the spring of 2024 at Cedarville Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband.  Kindly consider contributions in her memory to the Abraham House, Rome, NY.  Leona’s family will forever hold in their hearts the care that the staff of Abraham House offered to their mother.  Always going above and beyond the call of duty, they displayed compassion, empathy and love at all times.