Obituary of David Mark Forbes

David “Dave” Forbes passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2020 in Roanoke, Virginia at the age of 60. David is survived by his parents, Douglas and Mattie Forbes; wife, Caroline Forbes; and daughters, Jenna Gill (husband, Benjamin and four grandchildren) and Joelle Pugh (husband, Zachary); brother, Douglas Allen Forbes (wife, Connie); nephew, niece, and their mother, Justin, Sarah, and Tammy Forbes; mother-in-law, Sue Frink, and brother-in-law, David Frink (partner, Carl Hayslett). An avid lover of all things family, coaching, teaching and basketball, Dave was known for his intentional pursuit of people and his warm personality. Born on January 30, 1960 in Washington DC to Doug and “Mattie” Forbes, David came into the world with red hair and a contagious light. He ran Cross Country and graduated from Roanoke College in 1982; later, he continued his education, earning two Master’s degrees to continue his career as a special educator and school administrator. He married his best friend, Caroline Frink, in 1985; they later had two beautiful daughters, Jenna and Joelle. He later became “Papa D” to four wonderful grandchildren who were his pride and joy. His children remember him as a loving and proud father who coached, taught, and encouraged them to pursue their dreams with drive and integrity. His family will cherish the many memories made on annual vacations, adventures in traveling and sports, frequent visits to the Mexican restaurant, and the quality time spent together. Dave was a virtuous man of integrity and faith. He cared deeply for every person he met, ensuring everyone felt welcomed and valued in his presence. He never met a stranger; it was natural for him to greet everyone with an open heart and instantly make them feel at home. Because he saw the best in others, he had this way of empowering people to do better and to be better. He was passionate about his work in the Staunton River community as he faithfully served as a teacher, coach, special educator, and administrator throughout the last 18 years. It was his lifelong mission to help every student succeed and actualize their fullest potential in the classroom, on the basketball court, and beyond. He desired for all students to know their value. He was known for his caring demeanor, his willingness to give 110% and then give more (even with only 10 seconds left on the clock). Mr. Forbes or Coach Forbes will be remembered for his patience, endurance, and wisdom in any situation as he encouraged everyone to work hard, to never settle, and to never compromise one’s integrity. David had a brilliant mind and an even brighter personality. He brought great joy into this world. He will be remembered for the countless ways he loved others with selfless generosity. Whether it was by showing up with his witty remarks or with sausage poofs, donuts, M&Ms, or some other treat to brighten someone’s day, Dave knew how to make others smile, and he will forever be remembered for the lively light he shined. He was a lover of God and people, and he was an active and dedicated member of New Century Church. As a strong, faith-filled believer in Jesus, his family rests in the assurance that their beloved husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather is at home in His Savior’s arms. Due to COVID-19, we will schedule a celebration of life service in the future for all family and friends and the Staunton River community to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider sponsoring a student for $40 to attend a Staunton River Basketball Camp by mailing your donation to Staunton River High School (Memo: Basketball Booster Club) at 1095 Golden Eagle Drive, Moneta, VA 24121. The family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support.