Barbara Jean (Soper) Forwood

Forwood, Barbara Jean, age 92, has gone to be with her Lord and Savior on November 21, 2024. Barb was born on January 24, 1932 in Grand Rapids, MI and was the daughter of Harold Scott and Grace Yale McAllister Soper.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Harold Soper Jr. (Fran), Sister Margaret (Peg) (Tom), Sister Grace (Uly) and Brother Lloyd (Bud) (Doris). Surviving are Barb’s son Richard S. Forwood Jr. (Kathy) of Arvada, CO and Sally J. O’Connor (Gerry) of Belmont, MI. Four grandchildren, Dan O’Connor (Emily) of Rockford, MI, Michael O’Connor (McKayla) of Rockford, MI, Brent Forwood of Grand Rapids, MI, Brittany Keller of Byron Center, MI. Four great grandchildren, Malia O’Connor, Emma O’Connor, Kaiden O’Connor and Jake Forwood.

Barb taught Kindergarten/1st Grade at Grand Rapids Public Schools and retired after +35 years. She was active in several school committees and hosted several Staff parties at her home.

In retirement, Barb moved to Northern Michigan permanently to her “happy place” on Portage Point in the two-lake town (Portage Lake and Lake Michigan) Onekama, MI. In Onekama, she served as a substitute teacher for 10 years and was active in her Church, First Congregational Church, as well as, Garden Club, Book Club, and played multiple card games often with her friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Barbara's memory to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Drive SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. www.faithhospicecare.org.

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