Lajuana Kay Gray Ford, 75

September 29, 1950 – December 11, 2025

Lajuana Kay Gray Ford, age 75, departed this earthly life and entered into her Heavenly home on Thursday evening, December 11, 2025, at Diversicare Health and Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, Mississippi.

At her request, a gathering of family and friends will be held from 2 PM until 3 PM on Monday, December 15, 2025, in the Heritage Chapel of the Ripley Funeral Home. Following the gathering, she will be laid to rest at Paynes Chapel Cemetery in Tippah County.

Born on September 29, 1950, in Ripley, Mississippi, Lajuana was the daughter of the late Chris James and Gaitha Virginia Jennings Gray. She was a graduate of Pine Grove High School and furthered her education at Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville. A devoted and hardworking woman, Lajuana spent many years employed in various industries, including Acco, Piper, and Dirt Cheap. She was married to her beloved husband, Mr. Timothy “Tim” Ford, who preceded her in death.

A Christian—and anything but your typical Southern grandmother—Lajuana, lovingly known as “Wannie” to her grandchildren, was always the cool grandma. She lived life boldly and fully, embracing each day with energy and enthusiasm. She had a deep love for animals (including, famously, a pet mountain lion at one time), a passion for fast and antique sports cars, and a true green thumb that she put to good use. She could be found many days out in the garden, working in the yard, or taking walks up and down the road.

Lajuana was feisty, stood firmly in her beliefs, and loved with a fierce, loyal heart. She was the kind of person you always wanted in your corner—someone who would stand by you without hesitation and defend those she loved with unwavering strength.

Her bright spirit and wild, unforgettable personality will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Yet, in the roar of a powerful engine, the sight of a blooming garden, or the presence of a beloved animal, her memory will live on—serving as a reminder of a woman who lived boldly, loved fiercely, and refused to be anything other than exactly who she was.

Those left to carry on such a legacy include her daughter, Jada Miller, her grandchildren, Dalton Cockrell (Leslie), and Paris Lindsey (Tyler), her great grandchildren, Porter Lindsey, Taylor Godin, and Alicia Godin, and her companion for many years, Ronnie Nunley.

Ripely Funeral Home invites you to share memories.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Gathering of Family and Friends

Monday
December 15, 2025
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral