"Cherishing Every Life with Heartfelt Service"

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Osmond Theodore Alaric Forbes, who departed this life at the age of 91. Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies, Osmond was the firstborn of four children who survived birth to Gladys and Julian Forbes. He lived a life marked by faith, family devotion, resilience, and service to others.

Osmond was married twice. From his first marriage, he was blessed with three children, and although that union later came to an end, he and his first wife, Recilla Forbes, continued to share the lasting bond of family. She survives him. Later in life, he married his second wife, Pearl McDonald-Forbes, who preceded him in death in March 2026. In his final years, Osmond was lovingly cared for by his late wife’s family—her adult daughters, Dalisay and Nicole, along with an adult granddaughter, Alivia, and an adult grandson, Gary, and other family members—who remained devoted to him with compassion and dedication until the very end.

A family man through and through, Osmond did everything he could to provide for those he loved. He gave what he could, even when he had little, and he was always willing to help others, displaying generosity to a fault. He carried himself with great pride and conviction, making choices from the heart over caution. Yet he continued forward, doing the best he could with all that he possessed.

Osmond was a man of many talents and a strong work ethic. He was trained and worked throughout his life as a carpenter and cabinet maker, and also worked as an orderly in a medical center while exploring opportunities in real estate. Although he did not complete college, he never allowed that to define or limit him. He pressed on with determination, always striving to build a better life for himself and his family.

Osmond enjoyed staying active and, well into his later years, loved running and walking for exercise and was known to be a strong swimmer. Early on, he especially cherished making memories with his children. Among his fondest joys were the family road trips he took with his wife and three children from their toddler years through high school—simple journeys that became treasured traditions filled with laughter, visits with loved ones, and lasting memories.

Above all, Osmond was a man of deep spiritual commitment. Raised in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, he remained faithful to that denomination until his death. His favorite Bible verse, John 3:16, reflected the foundation of his hope and belief. Osmond loved music, and his beautiful tenor voice blessed many. He sang religious music as a soloist, in quartets, and in choirs, lifting hearts and pointing listeners to Jesus Christ.

During his years in the Adventist Church, he became deeply involved in the worldwide youth and adult organization known as Pathfinders. He studied diligently from the entry level of “Friend” to achieving the highest certification level of “Master Guide.” He went on to serve as the Pathfinder leader at Hanson Place Seventh-day Adventist Church in Brooklyn, New York, where he poured his time and energy into the lives of young people. This ministry became a true passion for him, especially after his own children had grown and moved away for education and adulthood. His love for children was evident, rooted in the fact that even in his early years in Trinidad, he spent time teaching before migrating to the United States under a special trade/work agreement that eventually led toward U.S. citizenship.

In the years following changes in family life, Osmond continued residing in the family home in New York until 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2013, he remarried and later relocated to Tennessee, where he embraced a new season of life surrounded by extended family and loved ones.

In 2022, Osmond’s health began to gradually decline due to a combination of age-related cognitive challenges, glaucoma affecting both eyes, a damaged retina in his left eye, and a major health setback in January 2023 when he contracted COVID-19 for the first time. The illness and its neurological complications significantly accelerated his cognitive decline and further affected his quality of life. Throughout these challenges, devoted family members remained committed to his comfort, care, and well-being.

During his final days, Osmond was surrounded by love. A special end-of-life vigil was held with a few extended family members and his three adult children, and he thoroughly enjoyed the comfort, presence, and unity of those dearest to him.

Left to cherish his memory and honor his life are his three adult children: Fyrn S. Forbes-Canning and son-in-law Derrick G. Canning; son, Ruel A. Forbes; son, Ronald Forbes and daughter-in-law Heather Forbes; his granddaughters, his first wife, Recilla B. Forbes; his remaining sibling, Cynthia Forbes; his three adult stepdaughters and their spouses, children, and grandchildren; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, associates, and true friends—many of whom he met during the decades he lived in New York, where he spent nearly all of his adult life. A special mention is extended to his longtime friend, Pastor Fitzroy Maitland.

Osmond was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Gladys and Julian Forbes; his sister, Stephanie Forbes Halls; his brother, Leslie Forbes; Leslie’s first wife, Pearl Forbes; his nephew, Sean Halls; and his niece, Lesley Ann “Paula” Forbes.

Osmond Theodore Alaric Forbes will be remembered as a hardworking provider, a man of faith, a devoted father, and a gifted singer whose voice brought joy and inspiration to many. His presence and his wonderful tenor voice will be deeply missed

Please remember his beloved family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this time.

Family and Friends will gather on Sunday, July 19, 2026, to honor and celebrate the Life of Osmond Forbes. A repass will be held following the service.

Entrusted to the care of Madison Funeral Home