Malik Deon Ford, son of Francina Redding and the late Willie Ford, Sr., was born in Albany, Georgia on November 2, 2000. Early in life, he developed a personal relationship with the Lord.

He received his formal education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 2020.  While at Monroe, he was a very active, diehard "Tornado" and mascot for the band.  Throughout his school years, he was a vibrant, inquisitive student who was a ray of sunshine to teachers, peers, and close friends..

"Laney," as he was called by family and friends, was an enthusiastic,  spontaneous young man with a gigantic personality and full of life.    He never let circumstances define him nor conditions stop him from progressive movement.  He was a trendsetter, was very popular, and had a big heart.  Malik enjoyed life and all that it had to offer.  Dancing and entertaining others were among his favorite pastimes and his "smooth, rhythmic moves" truly captivated and thrilled people around him.

Loving son, devoted brother, son, dutiful grandson, awesome companion, caring nephew, committed cousin, and loyal friend, Malik impacted and attracted many people to him with his love of life,  energetic personality, and willingness to help anyone in need.  Like a bright star, he could light up a room and bring joy to everyone around him.  The bonds of friendship forged throughout his life helped to create loving  memories that will never be forgotten.

Though Malik's earthly departure on May 14, 2021 leaves a void in the hearts of family and friends, his exuberant spirit will always be remembered.

Unforgettable memories will forever remain with his loving mother, Francina Redding; his siblings, Laquessa Redding, Porsha Ford,  Tadarious Johnson, Shikera Ford, Willie Ford, Jr., Denzel Ford, Nicholas Redding, Byron Ford, Timbrell Redding, Jaylen Tanner Redding, Tyler Jaylen Redding, and Tyree Redding; a special friend whom he loved dearly, Naqiybah Flood; grandparents, Ada Bell Redding and Josephine Ford; uncles and aunts, Eddie Redding, Jr., Montez Redding, Cynthia Redding, Tomikko Anthony, Daphane Ford, Lillian Jackson and Joyce Morgan; nieces and nephews,     Jasmine Redding, Jordyn Redding, Trinity Hogan, Taylor Ford,  Nylon Collier, Nicholas Collier, Denzel Thompson, and James Brookins, III; and a host of friends and extended family.