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James Randolph Forrest Jr.

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James, 94, went from this life’s wonderful adventure to the next one on October 25, 2021, in Surprise, AZ. He was born August 28, 1927, on a Sunday in Norfolk VA to James R. and Nancy M. (Gilliland).
He is survived by his much-loved wife of 61 years, Constance (Neill). Also surviving are son James III (Mary Cuthbert) of Buckeye, AZ, and Daughter Rebecca (Georgia) of Youngsville, NC; Granddaughter, Emily A., of Richmond, VA; Brother Robert (Violet Robertson), Washington, PA; Two nieces: Nancy (Ollek), Eugene OR, and Beth (McCleery), Wheeling, WV; and Nephew Scott, Columbus, OH. James’ mother and father proceeded him in death.
James graduated from Maury High School in Norfolk, VA and immediately received his orders to join the Army during World War II, deploying to the Philippines. Upon his return, he earned a Business degree at Virginia Tech. Upon graduation, he was hired by the Owens Corning Corporation, and located in Kansas City. There he met his wife to-be and they married on June 11, 1955. Most of his career was spent in Toledo, OH as Owens Corning’s Manager of Corporate Customer Service, culminating is his retirement to Sun City West, AZ. While in Toledo, he was a noted Boy Scout Troop Leader, and trained and sponsored many Eagle Scouts, his son being one.
In retirement, he was an avid bird watcher, hiker, fitness advocate and volunteer. Among many roles, he served as President of the Sun City West Sportsman Club and served as a guide at the Hassayampa River Preserve. He spent many hours helping at the Advent Episcopal Church as a caregiver and on the Vestry, helping the church certify as a Parish.
James left this Earth surrounded by his loving family, and the Hospice and Fellowship Square Oasis caregivers. At Oasis, he had the nickname of the “Singer”, as his memory for words in songs never failed him. His Memory Care North Caregivers were so good to him, and we thank them.
“It’s Hard to Forget Someone Who Gave Us So Much to Remember”. The Memorial Service will be held at Advent Episcopal Church, 13150 W. Spanish Garden Dr., Sun City West, AZ 85375 on Saturday, November 13th at 11:00am MST. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Advent Episcopal Church Endowment Fund.
For condolences and online version, please visit the Best Funeral Service West Valley Chapel site at https://obituaries.bestfuneralservices.com