Tree Town Festival Honors Jim and Marie Forney as Grand Marshals of Parade

FOREST- Jim and Marie Forney have been named grand marshals of the Forest Tree Town Festival Parade that will step off this evening at 6:30pm. The Tree Town Festival Committee saluted the Forneys for their steadfast dedication to the betterment of Forest. They are the owners of Forney Sales and Service, started by Jim’s parents, Leta and Wayne Forney. Jum purchased the lawn mower sales and service business from his mom in 1992.

Committee member Raegan Hastings said “This couple is a true embodiment of ‘support local.’ They are frequent patrons of Forest local businesses. They continuously and enthusiastically support, participate and donate to local youth organizations, Community Improvement Corporation and Village of Forest Market Square, just to name a few.

“Their support throughout our community is vital and more appreciated than I have words for,” Raegan said.

“We’re humbled,” said Jim Forney of receiving the honor. “It was a sweet surprise. We’re honored we got chosen.”

Marie said, “The community has been good to us.”

Jim said, “Forest is a great town. When people need help, Forest people rally. We’re a tight-knit community.”

“People have treated us well” Marie said. “We’re nothing without our customers. We get to know our customers and get to know their families.”

Their own family is equally important to Jim and Marie. They are the parent of two daughters, Nickki (Daric) Preston and Stacie (Heath) Hill. They have five grandchildren: Aidra, Dailah and Reid Preston, and Marlee and Bexley Hill.

Marie said they are proud supporters of their grandchildren at all of their sports events.

Jim and Marie haven’t taken a vacation in 22 years, but they don’t want people feeling sorry for them.

“We’re together. We enjoy being together,” said Jim, who turned 70 last week. The couple will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept 4.

They are proud of the business they have built, which often requires them to make deliveries and pick-ups after hours.

Jim said, “We never wanted to be huge, but a quality business.”

But Jim believes others should be recognized for their work on the festival.

“The men and women who put the festival on are the ones who should be honored. They are the unsung heroes.”