Obituary for Frances “Fran” Rosetta Forbes

Frances “Fran” Rosetta Forbes, 84, passed away peacefully at her home on July 31, 2026, surrounded by family. 

Born on July 5, 1942, in Boone, North Carolina, Fran was the daughter of Raleigh Jefferson Moretz and Cora Ethel (Thomas) Moretz. A Southern girl at heart, she cherished time spent with family and friends and remained deeply rooted in the Christian faith in which she was raised. Her unwavering love for the Lord guided every aspect of her life and was reflected in the kindness, grace, and compassion she extended to everyone she met. 

Fran shared 36 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Reverend K.B. Forbes, until his passing in December 2000. Together they faithfully served several Baptist churches, answering God’s call wherever it led them. Fran was much more than a pastor’s wife. She was a devoted partner in ministry, faithfully playing the piano for every church service and helping lead countless congregations in worship through her gift of music. 

Above all else, Fran was devoted to her family. She lovingly had seven children, creating a home filled with faith, love, and encouragement. Her greatest joy was watching her family grow through the generations, and she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

Fran found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in making others feel loved. She was a familiar and welcoming presence every Sunday at church, greeting friends with a warm smile and heartfelt hug. She enjoyed spending time at the Hardin County Council on Aging, where she looked forward to socializing with friends, playing bingo, making crafts, and sharing laughs. Fran loved taking care of herself, never missing her weekly hair appointment or a trip to the nail salon. She took pride in always being beautifully dressed from head to toe, carrying herself with grace and elegance wherever she went. Her smile could light up a room, and her contagious laugh brought joy to everyone around her. Fran truly never met a stranger, effortlessly striking up conversations and making people feel like lifelong friends. She had a sweet tooth that was no secret to those who knew her, always finding room for dessert or a favorite treat. Some of her happiest moments were gathered around the table filled with family, sharing meals, stories, and laughter. Christmas held a special place in her heart, and she treasured every opportunity to celebrate with the people she loved. Whether attending birthdays, graduations, holidays, or other milestones, Fran made every effort to be there. And when she couldn’t, her family could always count on receiving a thoughtful card filled with love and reminders of how much they meant to her. 

Fran was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Reverend K.B. Forbes and her parents, Raleigh Jefferson Moretz and Cora Ethel (Thomas) Moretz. 

She leaves behind seven children: Robin (Keith), Tony (Gina), Charlotte (Mike), Sandra, Delores, Kermit (Catherine), and Iva. Franny was a proud and loving “Nana” and “Granny” to her twelve grandchildren: Erika, Brandon, Amanda, Michelle, Mike, Coby, Lori, Kenny, Melinda, Kermit Jr., Nadene, and Stephanie. She is also lovingly remembered by more than twenty great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. 

Fran will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her servant’s heart, her love of music, and the quiet strength with which she cared for her family and served the Lord. While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life, knowing she has been welcomed into the presence of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, love, and devotion will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Frances “Fran” Rosetta Forbes on Friday, August 7, 2026, at New Hope Church (13671 W. Pattison Ave, Kenton, OH 43326). Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00AM, with the funeral service immediately following. Fran’s final resting place will be at Grove Cemetery in Kenton, OH. The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the fmaily with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Hardin County Council on Aging or New Hope Church in honor of Frances Forbes. 

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one, 

I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when day is gone. 

I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, 

Of happy times, and laughing times, and bright and sunny days. 

I’d like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun, 

Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.