Denise Latrice Ford

Denise “Niecy” Latrice Ford, 59, of Chicago, Illinois, made her peaceful transition from earth to her heavenly home on Saturday, October 18, 2025, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Born on August 3, 1966, to the union of Gloriazel Ford and the late Albert Ford. Denise grew up on the West Side of Chicago and was one of five siblings.

Denise gave her life to Christ and was baptized as a young girl at Douglas Park Missionary Baptist Church. And loved attending worship service with her mom and family at Broadview Missionary Baptist Church. She graduated from Marie Sklodowska Curie Metropolitan High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from East-West University. Professionally,

Denise built a meaningful career and lasting friendships through her work at major corporations: Citibank, Bank of America, Comcast, and most recently, The Secretary of State. Beyond work, she lived a life of care and service, often tending to older relatives like Uncle Charlie, Aunt Eva, and Aunt Ida Belle. She was the “glue” of the Ford family—always eager to plan, connect, and bring people together. Even shortly before her passing, she helped organize a neighborhood block party.

Denise had many superpowers, one of which was shopping. As a style maven, she understood every attire assignment, from the everyday to black tie. She also loved house music, the movies, good food, travelling, all-things Chicago and adventurous activities, including jumping out of a perfectly good plane for her 45th birthday! She also found peace in cooking—especially when creating healthy recipes during her health journey. During her six-year battle with cancer,

 Denise faced each day with hope, style, resilience, and faith. She kept God first and relied on prayer, a love for life, and the support of her family to live life to the fullest. 

Denise will be remembered as a woman of grace, strength, humor, and faith—a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend who made everyone around her feel seen, cared for, and loved.Denise was deeply civic-minded and outspoken about injustices. Always engaged in what mattered most to her city, she attended local events, supporting her alderman, congressman and recently met Mayor Brandon Johnson. She took pride in staying informed and involved— believing that everyday people could make a difference. 

Denise leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Jennifer Brown (Ismael) and Aris Davis; four grandchildren, Kai, DaNila, Jenesis, and Yani; her godson, Myles; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, uncles, aunts, extended relatives, friends, a close circle of lifetime girlfriends; and her canine companion, Meela, who will all carry Denise’s love forward. She is lovingly remembered by her mom Gloriazel Ford, siblings, Sabian Ford (Nacha), Evangelist Carla Carter, and Sheila Ford, and is preceded in death by her brother, Albert Hoskins.During her six-year battle with cancer, Denise faced each day with hope, style, resilience, and faith. She kept God first and relied on prayer, a love for life, and the support of her family to live life to the fullest. 

Denise will be remembered as a woman of grace, strength, humor, and faith—a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend who made everyone around her feel seen, cared for, and loved.