In Loving Memory of Milton Lowaine Ford II (Waine)

Milton Lowaine Ford II, affectionately known as “Waine,” went home to be with the Lord on August 2, 2026, at the age of 48. Born on May 17, 1978, in Akron, Ohio, Waine lived a life defined by kindness, joy, and an unwavering love for his family.

Waine was the beloved son of Beverly Jean Bray and Milton L. Ford I and the cherished grandson of Ruth Ford and Barbara Ann Clay. He was a devoted brother to Demetrius Bray, with whom he shared a lifelong bond built on love, loyalty, and family.

Waine participated in the Weaver School Program and was awarded a certificate in May 2000. He went on to work at Weaver Industries, where he dedicated many years of service. Waine was also a resident of Blick Center and participated in its day programs, becoming a beloved part of the Blick Center community.

One of Waine’s greatest passions was bowling with the Special Olympics, where he competed for many years and proudly earned several top-three finishes. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors, often walking or running through his neighborhood. Whether listening to his beloved radio, enjoying music of every genre, or relaxing in front of his favorite television programs, Waine found happiness in life’s simple pleasures.

Waine will be remembered for the extraordinary person he was. He was gentle, caring, and full of life. His unmistakable laugh could fill an entire room, and anyone fortunate enough to meet him walked away with a lasting impression. Waine had an outgoing personality and never hesitated to let you know exactly how he was feeling – especially when he was ready to go! His honesty and authenticity brought smiles to everyone around him.

Waine loved his family with all his heart and was fiercely protective of those he cared about. His was the kind of love that comes once in a lifetime. His spirit was comforting, genuine, and unforgettable.

His passing has impacted so many lives, but we find comfort in the countless memories and stories he leaves behind. His laughter, kindness, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched.

There was one familiar exchange between Waine and his brother Demetrius that now holds an even deeper meaning:

Waine: “Go home.”
Demetrius: “Waine, you ready to go home?”
Waine: “Yeah!”

We’re glad you made it home, Waine! WE LOVE YOU! Rest Easy, Brother!

Waine was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Eula Bray and O C  Ford; his uncle, Gregory Ford; and his aunt, Pamela Bray, and cousin Donovan Clay.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted mother Beverly Bray; Father, Milton (Delores) Ford I; devoted brother and advocate, Demetrius Bray; nephew, Grayson Matthew Joe Bray; Grandmothers, Ruth Ford and Barbara Ann Clay; Siblings, April Christian, Natia Dawson, and Matthew Ford; Aunts, Crystal Ford, Karen Bryant and her husband, Special Uncle “Chuck” Anthony Bryant Sr., Mary Brown, and Regina Clay; Uncles, Byron (Paulette) Bray, Fred Walters, Jerry (Debbie) Walters, and Robert Clay Sr; Great-Aunts, Connie Walker, Katie Davis, Paulien Mack, Mary Kiser, and Mariah Taylor; Great-Uncle, Ocie Kiser; Special Aunts, Jackie Crosby, Cyndi Randle, Dora Fox, Sandra Johnson, Pamela Finney, and Lisa Banks; 1^st Cousins, Marcus Ford, Eric Ford, Kimberly (Kenneth) Yarbrough-Carroll, Anthony “Tony” Bryant, Yvonne Bryant, Kyndra (Marquis) Vinson, LaKeisha (Tristan) Hammond, Byron “Gene” Bray II, Charise Bryant, Quiana Scott, Michelle McCarey, Tiffany Johnson, Desmond Clay, Robert(Pooh) Clay Jr., Denisha Clay, Brittany Clay, Destiny Clay, Deasia Clay, Brittney Primes, and Jerry King; special cuz, best friend, and barber, Dr. J. P. Portis; godsisters, Tiffany Tyson, Shawanda Littlejohn, and Shandra Wallace McElrath; godbrothers, Brandon Samuel and Tylan Bryant Sr.; and his “fighting buddy” since he was nine years old, Pandora “Dolly” Johnson.

Waine also leaves to cherish his memory his extended Summit County DD and Blick Center family in Akron, Ohio, including his house supervisor Shetorra McCormick, Nana Agyemang, Heaven, Franshawn, Rameka, and Jessica as well as a host of other relatives, friends, caregivers, and loved ones whose lives were made brighter because Waine was a part of them.