Carolyn Ford Bock

Carolyn Ford Bock, 76, was called home to her Lord and Savior Friday, April 12, 2024. She was born in Cape Girardeau April 22, 1947, to George and Dorothy Kies Penzel.

Carolyn was a product of the Cape Girardeau public schools, graduating from Central High in 1965. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southeast Missouri State University.

Carolyn was a “teachers’ teacher” and a “librarians’ librarian” -- all who knew her well would attest to these commendations. Carolyn taught in many area school districts including Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Scott City and Nell Holcomb.

Carolyn met Don Ford on SEMO’s campus, and they were married Aug. 24, 1968. They were the proud parents of Kathryn Francis Ford Sanders, born Dec. 10, 1973. Following Don’s death in 1997, Carolyn was re-introduced to Lewis Bock, and they were married in 2003.

Carolyn was active in the community. In college, she was active in the Tri Delta Sorority and several honor societies. She and Don were on the Area Younglife Committee. She was a Bible Study Fellowship mentor and active in “Read to Succeed". She was president of Friends of the Public Library and was named Friend of Southeast Missouri State University. Carolyn had many special moments growing up in Cape Girardeau, including cutting the ribbon to free the old Mississippi River bridge.

Carolyn was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church. She and Don were members of Grace Methodist, and she and Lewis were members of Cape Bible Chapel.

She is survived by her husband, Lewis Bock; daughter, Kate Ford Sanders (Scott Sanders); grandchildren, Grace and Ben Sanders; sister, Georganne Syler (William Syler); nieces, Lauren Weedon and Claire Syler; and stepchildren, Richard Bock and Catharine Bock Golomski.

Carolyn was predeceased by her husband, Donald Keith Ford, and her parents, Dorothy and George Penzel.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, April 15, followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Cape Girardeau. The Revs. Elliott Swoboda and Ellen Gurnon will officiate. Carolyn will be laid to rest beside Donald Ford at Cape County Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Younglife, Southeast Missouri Area, or the charity of your choice.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.