the Jesus she loved so much on November 9, 2021. Rosemary was
born on May 6, 1932 in Sherman, Texas. During her formative years she
lived in El Paso, TX., but moved to Silver City and then Santa Rita in
New Mexico. Eventually, due to an employment change for her father,
her family moved to Portland, Oregon, and then to Beaverton, Oregon
where she remained. In high school she was actively involved in Glee
Club, Pep Club and Ladies of the Court (Homecoming) at Beaverton
High School where she thrived and then graduated in 1950. She worked
for various up and coming businesses during her earlier post-high school
career, making a difference wherever she was employed. She was active at Cedar Mill Bible
Church where she met her sweetheart, Les Forney, in her early twenties at the very church they
would eventually be married in after spending a couple years together at Westmont College in
Santa Barbara, California.
Her greatest joy in life was her family, where she spent the majority of her time and energy
caring for and loving each one. She was such a support to her husband, who was the Principal
of West Hills Christian School in the Portland area. She was deeply passionate about God’s
word, her family, hurting souls and the many she mentored, the underdog, animals, her one and
only sibling - a precious sister and many of her dear friends. Truth be told - she loved mocha
frappes too! She was often found working hard so that others could rest.
Rosemary is survived by her five children: Daughter Denise (Mike) Goffe, Son David (Delores)
Forney, Daughter Danita (Todd) Newell, Son Daniel (Trisha) Forney, and Son Dale (Gina)
Forney, 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and sister Iva
Forney.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the Spring to allow for multiple members of the
family to be able to attend along with the many who loved her.
Donations can be made in her name to West Hills Christian School or to the National Stroke
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