Dwedor Weslyne Ford, Ph.D.
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (July 23, 2025) – The Prairie View A&M University community mourns the loss of Dr. Dwedor Weslyne Ford, a respected educator, leader, and mentor who served as director and associate professor of kinesiology in the School of Public and Allied Health. Dr. Ford passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the age of 45.
Dr. Ford devoted six years of service to PVAMU. She was known for her unwavering passion for student success and her commitment to advancing the field of kinesiology through education, research, and service. Her presence left a lasting impression on her students, colleagues, and the broader University community.
“Dr. Ford was far more than a dedicated educator—she was a visionary leader, an inspiring mentor, and a beloved friend. Her unwavering commitment to student success and her profound contributions to the field of Kinesiology left an indelible mark on our school and the broader university community. Her work in education, research, and service was both impactful and far-reaching, and her presence will be sorely missed by all who had the honor of knowing and working alongside her,” said Dr. Angela Branch-Vital, dean of the School of Public and Allied Health.
A proud cum laude graduate of Tennessee State University, Dr. Ford earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science before continuing her academic journey at Middle Tennessee State University, where she completed both a Master of Science in Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Safety and a Doctor of Philosophy in Health and Human Performance. Reflecting her dedication to lifelong learning, she also earned a Master of Business Administration and was an active participant in the Baylor University Biomedical Researcher Scholars Program. Dr. Ford was a distinguished member of the PROPEL HBCU Faculty Fellows Program and the PROPEL Faculty Fellows Academy.
A memorial service celebrating her life and legacy will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Johnson-Phillip All Faiths Chapel on the PVAMU campus. The service will be officiated by Dean Charles H. Lewter IV. All members of the University community, as well as family, friends, and loved ones, are invited to attend.
Dr. Ford is survived by her daughter, McKynsli; her mother, Dr. Dwedor M. Ford; and is preceded in death by her father, Dr. Charles W. Ford, Jr. The University community extends its deepest condolences to the Ford family during this time of sorrow.
“While we mourn the loss of an extraordinary colleague and friend, we remain grateful for the time we shared with her and the enduring legacy she leaves behind. May her life continue to inspire excellence, leadership, and service in all of us,” said Dr. Branch-Vital.
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