James F. ‘Jim' Forrest Sr., retired teacher
James F. “Jim” Forrest Sr., 83, formerly of Wilmington, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Monday, Sept. 12, 2011. at his home in Lewes on his 58th wedding anniversary.
Jim was born in Wilmington July 31, 1928, to the late George and Mary Forrest. "Fo" was a retired English and German teacher at William Penn High School for over 30 years where he also served as a crosscountry coach. He graduated from Salesianum School for Boys in 1946 and then served in the Army in the Occupied Forces in Japan from 1946-48. He married Elvina "Scotty" Cirino in 1953, his surviving wife. He also attended LaSalle University that same year where he achieved a bachelors of arts degree.
They relocated to West Covina, Calif. in 1954 for a job opportunity in insurance sales and later returned to Wilmington in 1964. He went on to complete his master’s degree plus 30 credits from the University of Delaware in 1970. In the 70s Jim was often seen jogging throughout the Wilmington area and successfully completed his first Boston Marathon in 1971.
Dad loved to tell stories, read, write, cook, bake bread and make homemade soups. He loved his food and drink. He represented Delaware in the National Beef Cook Off Contest in North Dakota in 1983. He had a great sense of humor and wonderful laugh. His long-term memory was astounding, especially related to favorite meals he ate, including where he ate them and how much they cost. He was a devoted husband and loving father.
He is survived by his five children, James F. Jr., Thomas M. (Marie "Twiggy"), Nancy M. Devero (Jack), Sharon R. (Nick Edge), Anthony J. (Glyn Edwards); his eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also predeceased by his siblings, George Forrest, Julia Lemon, Mary Denver, Eileen Bupp and Ann Sweeney.
The family thanks Compassionate Care Hospice and Griswold Special Care for the wonderful, personal care they gave Dad.
A viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 16, at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3710 Kirkwood Hwy. at Duncan Road. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 17, at St. John The Beloved, 907 Milltown Road. Interment will be in All Saints’ Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Jusst Sooup Ministry at 17256 Queens Anne Way, Lewes, DE 19958, or a favorite charity.
