Adam Michael Ford, 37

A celebration of life for Adam Michael Ford, 37, formerly of Gainesville, will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the Barley House Event Center in Springfield. Those who would like to attend are welcome and encouraged to join the family for the event.

He died unexpectedly on Thursday, July 2, 2026.  He was born on Sept. 15, 1988, in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Adam was a 2008 graduate of Gainesville High School. Upon the invitation of his extended family, Adam moved to the Springfield area in May of 2023. He subsequently built a strong group of friends through his AA and NA groups. 

If nothing else can be said, Adam never gave up on his journey for his mental health and sobriety. Unfortunately for everyone, relapses happen. It took its toll. His family urges anyone battling mental health or addiction issues to please not isolate and always reach out for help. Accidents do happen, even to those we love the most. 

Adam was a truly good person who led with kindness, grace and love. The family asks that whoever had the privilege of knowing Adam carry on this legacy to others, people and animals alike.

Adam is survived by his dog, Mads; parents, Bruce and Martha Webb of Gainesville and Bruce and Vickie Ford of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; sister Sara Beatty (Nate); brothers, Hunter Webb (Sophie), Mike Battistella (Melanie) and Jason Ford.  

He was preceded in death by his grandparents and one aunt.    

Donations to honor Adam's love of animals may be made to watchingoverwhiskers.org or to those in recovery through Simmering Center Inc. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.