John Alfred Forest

A Glimpse of Goodbye to John Forest

John Forest was born in Toombs County, Vidalia, Georgia, as the seventh of eight children to the late Henry and Mattie Mae Forest. Known as the quietest among his siblings, John carried a calm and steady presence throughout his life.

He later moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he attended local schools and graduated from New Stanton High School, Class of 1958. Following graduation, John worked as a merchant seaman before pursuing a new path. He trained in California to become a welder, a profession he practiced in both California and Philadelphia. Eventually, he returned to Jacksonville, where he continued his welding career and later retired.

John was the father of one daughter, Patricia Forest. He held a strong faith and was affiliated with the Holiness-Apostolic tradition under the leadership of Bishop Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mattie Mae Forest, and his sister, Lovevonia Pelzer.

John leaves to cherish his memory:

his daughter, Patricia Forest;

two sisters, Lurlene Johnson and L. Jean Stone;

two brothers, Melvin Forest and James Forest - all of Jacksonville, Florida;

along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will remember him with love and respect.

A visitation for John will be held Friday, April 18, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens, Riverside Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205.