Jerry Larkus Forbus' Obituary
Funeral Service for Mr. Jerry Larkus Forbus, 81, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Wayne Cowhick will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 2, 2025 from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Radney Funeral Home.
Jerry Larkus Forbus, known fondly to friends and family as Jerry, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 81 in his hometown of Alexander City, AL, where he also first greeted the world on July 23, 1943. His life was a testament to the enduring power of love, kindness, and selflessness, qualities that defined him in every role he embraced.
Jerry's journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 61 years, Nancy Forbus, who stood by his side in a partnership that was a beacon of commitment and affection. Their love blossomed into a family, with their daughter Dana Forbus Heard and son David (Melanie) Forbus, who in turn gave Jerry the joy of being a grandfather to Hunter Forbus, Caitlynn Forbus (Luke) Wilkins, Heather Nicole (Kenneth Smith) Heard, and Xavier Lee (Anita Cruz) Heard. The family circle expanded with the arrival of great-grandchildren Avyanna, Kaisley, Kyler, and Leonna Smith, who brought immeasurable happiness to Jerry's later years. His sisters, Judy Forbus (Paul) Alford and Peggy Forbus, will remember their brother with hearts full of cherished memories.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Larkus Seldon Forbus, his mother, Inez Forbus, his brother, Jackie Forbus, his son-in-law, Leon Heard, and his great-grandchild, Kasen Smith. Each of these losses was a chapter of sorrow in his life, but Jerry's enduring strength and love continued to be the cornerstone for his family.
Professionally, Jerry dedicated many years of service as a Maintenance Technician at Avondale Mills, where his work ethic and camaraderie with colleagues were highly valued. His commitment to his work was paralleled only by his involvement in various associations, where he contributed with the same passion and dedication that he applied to every aspect of his life.
Jerry's interests painted the picture of a man who cherished the simple pleasures in life. He was an avid Alabama fan, embodying the spirit and enthusiasm that come with true sportsmanship. His love for golf was more than a hobby; it was a way to embrace the outdoors and the camaraderie of friends on the green. Jerry found solace in the pages of western books, where tales of bravery and adventure captured his imagination. Watching sports on TV was another of his favorite pastimes, a way to stay connected to the games he loved from the comfort of his home.
Family trips to the beach were among Jerry's most treasured memories, moments when the sun, sand, and surf provided a backdrop to the laughter and stories shared with his loved ones. His sweet tooth was legendary, a little indulgence that he never hesitated to satisfy, much to the delight of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who often joined him in enjoying a treat.
Above all, Jerry loved his family deeply, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose achievements and milestones were a source of immense pride and joy. His love was a guiding light, his kindness a warm embrace, and his selflessness a lesson in living for others.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jerry Larkus Forbus.
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