August 7, 1952–April 9, 2021
Surrounded by his family, and with an Irish tune playing, died peacefully just as the sunset left his room on Friday, April 9, 2021. He took on life with caring, spirit, commitment, and a side of humor, as all who knew him understood. Born in Virginia Beach on August 7, 1952, he was the loving son of the late Barbara Brett Ford. The youngest of five children, he grew up in Harwich. Stephen met his wife, Patsy, at American University in 1976. They were married in Pittsburgh on October 6, 1979. The couple moved to Harwich to begin their life together where they had three daughters. They moved to Pittsburgh in 1997, where they spent the next 20 years, returning to Harwich in 2017. Stephen began his career in politics, working for Congressman Gerry Studds, before transitioning to financial services. He was proud to represent the Town of Harwich on the Board of Selectmen for the last several years. Stephen will be deeply missed by his wife, Patsy Welsh Ford, his daughters, Caroline Ford Regan (Sean), Erin Ford Gallagher (Patrick), and Molly Ford Meinert (Max), his six grandchildren, Tierney and Rory Regan, Eoin, Sloane, and Brennan Gallagher, and Connor Meinert, and one on the way, to whom he was known as Beach. He is also survived by his four siblings and their spouses, Patricia Barnicle (David), Peter Ford (Sara), Robert Ford (Linda), and Michael Ford (Judy), his devoted dog, Tadhy, and loving family and friends. Stephen valued nothing above his family. Visiting hours will be held at Doane Beal and Ames Funeral Home in Harwich on Wednesday, April 14 from 3–7 pm. Mass of Christian burial will be at Holy Trinity Parish in Harwich on Thursday, April 15 at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Boys Hope Girls Hope of Pittsburgh (https://bhghpittsburgh.org/donate/) and The Family Pantry of Cape Cod (https://thefamilypantry.com) For online condolences, please visit www.doanebealamesharwich.com .
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