In Loving Memory of Dr. Dwedor Weslyne Ford

Sunrise: October 30, 1979

Sunset: July 16, 2025

A Life of Purpose, Passion, and Faith

Dr. Dwedor Weslyne Ford, affectionately known as "Dee," was a beloved daughter, devoted mother, cherished sister, gifted scholar, and faithful servant of God. She passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 45.

Dr. Ford’s story began with rich roots and a powerful heritage. Born in Conway, Arkansas, to the late Dr. Charles Wesley Ford, Jr. and Dr. Dwedor Morais Ford, Dee was a proud first-generation Liberian American. On October 30, 1979, she entered the world with strength and presence, weighing nine pounds and one ounce.

From the beginning, Dee stood out—a precocious child who showed early signs of brilliance, creativity, confidence, and leadership. She graduated as one of two valedictorians from Canaan Baptist Day Care Center, where she served as class reporter, led the Pledge to the Christian Flag at her graduation ceremony, and was voted one of the two smartest girls by her classmates.

Education & Career

Dee graduated from J.A. Fair High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she served with distinction both academically and in student life. She was co-captain of the drill team, a student council member, editor of the school newspaper, and a delegate to the 1997 Student Congress. In 1998, she earned the title of second runner-up in the Miss Fair pageant. Dee’s academic excellence was recognized through her induction into both the National Honor Society and the National Beta Club. One of her proudest moments came when her father, Charles—a devoted member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity—presented her as an Alpha Phi Alpha Debutante, a celebration of her grace, scholarship, and promise.

Dee graduated summa cum laude from Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. Shortly thereafter, she began her career in academia, teaching computer science at Philander Smith College in Little Rock. Her passion for education and leadership led her to pursue advanced studies, earning both a Master’s degree in Sport Management and a Ph.D. in Human Performance from Middle Tennessee State University. Committed to lifelong learning and expanding her impact, she later completed an MBA from the University of the People.

Legacy & Impact

As an Assistant Professor at North Carolina A&T State University, Dr. Ford taught and conducted research, coordinated the M.S. program in Physical Education and Health—Sport Administration, and co-authored several academic papers with her colleagues. One of her proudest moments was collaborating on a presentation titled “Community Engagement and Partnerships: Getting Physically Fit,” which reflected her deep commitment to community wellness and public health.

Seeking new challenges and growth opportunities, she later moved to Texas and briefly taught at Texas Southern University as an Adjunct Professor. She later joined the faculty at Prairie View A&M University as an Assistant Professor. Her leadership and innovation quickly stood out, and she was appointed Director and Assistant Professor of the Health and Kinesiology Department. In this role, she led major curriculum reforms, championed interdisciplinary approaches to health education, and served as a dedicated mentor to both students and fellow faculty members.

Dr. Ford was named an HBCU Faculty Fellow in 2024 and became a featured speaker at the 2024 Propel Learn Technology Integration Summit. Her scholarly contributions included numerous academic papers, creative works, and successful grant proposals.

Before her passing, she achieved the distinguished milestone of tenure at Prairie View A&M University—an accomplishment that reflected her unwavering dedication, intellect, and passion for education. She was deeply excited about the future and the many possibilities that lay ahead.

As a committed professor and mentor, Dr. Ford led impactful research exploring disability sport, racial and health inequities, the integration of AI in kinesiology, and culturally responsive teaching practices. Known for being firm but fair, she believed that true growth came from effort—her students didn’t simply pass; they earned every grade through hard work, leaving her classroom with both knowledge and confidence. Beyond her teaching, Dr. Ford was a collaborative team member who built strong friendships rooted in mutual respect. Over time, her colleagues became like a second family—a supportive community where admiration and trust grew naturally. Her ability to connect with others and collaborate seamlessly made her a deeply valued and cherished member of the team.

In early 2025, Dr. Ford was admitted to the Syracuse University College of Law for the fall semester and awarded a 100% Dean’s Merit Scholarship. She planned to pursue law with a focus on education, real estate, and public interest. Her commitment to academic excellence was deeply rooted in her faith, which was nurtured and strengthened throughout her life.

Her spiritual foundation was strong. Baptized at First Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Dee served as a Junior Usher. She later joined Born Again Church in Nashville, Tennessee, where she graduated as salutatorian from the Ministers in Training Program and was licensed as a minister.

Dee proudly embraced her Liberian heritage and fully embodied the spirit of an “APECA”—an affectionate nickname in the Ford family meaning Active Participant in Extracurricular Activity. The name captured her vibrant curiosity and enthusiastic involvement in a wide range of pursuits. A talented sewist, Dee designed and wore garments inspired by her cultural roots. She was also a licensed beautician, a certified personal trainer, and a real estate agent—each role reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and creative energy.

Deeply committed to service, Dee was an active volunteer in her community. She was a proud member of the Houston Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, Sigma Chi Psi, Sorority, Inc. Beta Beta Chapter, and served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), where she championed the rights and well-being of children in the juvenile court system. As a commissioned notary public, she remained ever ready to assist others with professionalism and care.

Most recently, Dee partnered with her mother to bring electricity to underserved areas in Brewerville, Liberia—a project close to her heart. She was also developing an AI-powered literacy app designed to support Black children with dyslexia, reflecting her passion for equity in education. Additionally, she was preparing to lead real estate rehabilitation initiatives in underserved communities across the U.S. and Liberia, demonstrating her enduring commitment to empowerment and transformation.

From an early age, Dee displayed a natural talent and deep love for writing. Her family noticed this gift as she penned poems, short stories, and essays throughout her childhood and high school years, often using her words to uplift, educate, or entertain. As an adult, she embraced this passion fully, becoming a published author with the release of her children’s book, Jesus is My Help!—a spiritually grounded story that reflected her faith and desire to inspire young readers. At the time of her passing, Dee was actively working on two additional manuscripts: one, a reflective and informative book on her personal journey with breast cancer, aimed at encouraging others facing similar battles; the other, a suspenseful young adult mystery novel intended to spark imagination and critical thinking among teen readers.

Faith & Family

Of all her roles, Dee was proudest of being “Mommy” to McKynsli. As a single mother, she poured boundless love and wisdom into her daughter’s life and was a fierce advocate for her education. Dee was a constant, nurturing presence—volunteering at McKynsli’s school, attending every event, and making sure her daughter always felt supported, seen, and celebrated. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom as she actively participated in the Cypress-Fairbanks Leadership Committee—the district her daughter attended—to better understand its operations and serve as a strong advocate for parents and the broader community.

Dee is survived by her beloved daughter, Dwedor-Reecie McKynsli Robinson; her mother and devoted caregiver, Dr. Dwedor Morais Ford Massaquoi, and stepfather, Hon. Christian Clarence Massaquoi; and her loving siblings: Chanita Weslee Neal (Roddrick), Charlise Weslea Ford, and Charles Wesley Ford III (Chantel).

She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews: Kailyn Simone and Kwendalyn Morais (children of Chanita and Roddrick); and Carrvey Wayden, Chadow Levi, Charli Lathay, and Clover Windi (children of Charles III and Chantel).

Dee leaves behind several step-siblings, as well as many cherished aunts, uncles, grandaunts, granduncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who loved her deeply and will continue to honor her legacy.

Dee was radiant, opinionated, joy-filled, and purpose-driven. She had a sharp mind, a compassionate heart, and an infectious laugh. She was a self-starter, a lifelong learner, and a woman with many "open tabs"—each one a reflection of her endless drive to grow, serve, and create.

She lived fully. She loved fiercely. She believed faithfully. And now, she rests eternally in the presence of the Lord she so deeply trusted. 

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