Isaac Ford

Isaac Xavier Ford was born on April 13, 2000, in Burley, Idaho, to Samantha Ford and was a member of the Navajo Nation.

Isaac spent his early years in Fruitland, N.M., attending Ojo Elementary before moving to Burley to live with his grandmother, Daisy “Jennie” Ford, where he attended Dworshak and Mountain View Elementary Schools. In 2012, he moved to Boise to live with his father and stepmother, Ignacio “Nacho” and Enita Rocha, and later made his home in Lapwai with his aunt, Lilly James, and late grandfather, Sanford James Jr.

Isaac graduated from Lapwai High School in 2018 as salutatorian of his class. A talented athlete and performer, he participated in football, basketball, track and cheerleading. He was also the school mascot, known for his flips, energy and contagious smile. Isaac was lightning fast on his feet and loved to make others smile.

After high school, Isaac returned to Boise, where he pursued a career in construction and proudly earned his CDL. He loved driving his “big-ass truck” around the country. He worked hard and took great pride in his accomplishments. Isaac later discovered a love for cooking, working as a chef at Bella Aguila in Eagle, Idaho, for two years. He enjoyed the creativity and connection that came with sharing food.

Isaac was full of life and laughter. He loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting and fishing, skateboarding, hiking and capturing his adventures through photos, videos and his music. He cherished time spent with his family and friends, especially his nieces and nephews, who adored him deeply. Isaac’s smile could light up any room, and his kind, generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Isaac shared a special bond with his girlfriend and love of his life, Elise Summers, with whom he made many joyful memories. Their relationship brought him great happiness and hope for the future.

At the time of his passing, Isaac had recently returned home to Lapwai and was working for Crea Construction. He tragically passed away in a car accident while traveling to see Elise.

He is survived by his grandmother Daisy “Jennie” Ford; his mother Samantha Ford; his father Ignacio “Nacho” Rocha; his stepmother Enita Rocha; and his girlfriend, Elise Summers. He also leaves behind his beloved siblings: Becky Rocha, Deniece Rocha-Wilson, Josephine Ford, Aisha Ford, Kolina James, Israel Rocha, Samuel Rocha, Shawn Rocha-Wilson, Ryan Holiday, Quillius James, Jesse James and Penastacio Quintana and his many nieces and nephews — will carry forward his memory and laughter.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather Sanford James Jr.; uncles Jonas James and Sanford James III; and sister Nevelle James.

Isaac’s light, laughter and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Though gone too soon, his spirit will live on through the many lives he touched.

Services will be held at the Pi-Nee-Waus Community Center, 504 Main St. S., Lapwai. Seven Drum service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, and then a church service with Pastor Smith will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14. Burial will follow at Spalding Cemetery, then a meal to follow at the Pi-Nee-Waus Community Center.