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Rebecca Forward Obituary
McALLEN - Rebecca Forward, (nee Garcia), age 31, born January 23, 1977, in Weehawken, New Jersey went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 31, 2008 surrounded by the love of her family.
Rebecca was a loving and caring wife, mother, daughter, and sister who had a passion for painting, singing, reading, and life. She will be missed for her brilliant smile, her unique sense of rhythm and love songs. She would sing until her voice hit the right notes, whether you liked it or not. She will always be remembered for her unwavering love for her husband and daughter.
Rebecca was a graduate of the University of Texas Pan American and Sam Houston State University with a degree in Library Science and was employed by Progresso ISD as a librarian. Her favorite quote was "I have always imagined that paradise is a kind of library" by Borges.
Rebecca is survived by her loving husband, Jim Forward; and two-day-old daughter, Madeleine Grace Forward; her parents, Edmundo and Yolanda Garcia of McAllen; sister Veronica Garcia-Michael and husband George Michael; grandparents, Esther Garcia of North Bergen, N.J. and Edilberto Garcia of Miami, Florida; mother-in-law, Reyna Forward; sister-in-law, Shandy Gonzalez of Weslaco.
She is also survived by her loving aunts and uncles, Hector (Millie) Enriquez, Graciela Perez, Francisco (Gladys) Garcia, Elena Garcia, and Rafaela Garcia of New Jersey, Edilberto Garcia, Jr., Jose M. (Tania) Garcia, Emigdio (Rosie) Garcia, Georgina (Guillermo) Navarro of Florida, plus numerous cousins from New Jersey and Florida.
She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Hector and Ondina Enriquez; and father-in-law, Horace J. Forward.
Visitation will be held from 12 to 8 p.m. with the family present to receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, 2008, with the rosary recited at 7 p.m. The funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 4, 2008, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church with internment following Valley Memorial Gardens. Kreidler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of the arrangements. www.kreidlerfuneralhome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Rebecca Forward
Edmundo Garcia
June 26, 2008
The family and freinds of Rebecca have decided to contribute towards the creation of "Rebecca's Reading Room" at the Progreso School Library, where she spent much of her time. If you wish to hepl Please forward contributions to: The Rebecca Garcia-Forward Memeorial Fund, C/O IBC Bank,7124 N. 23rd St, McAllen, TX. 78504. A/C 2510419013. We have been informed that the Mocrosoft Corporation may be able to match whatever we can contribute.
Thank You
Hector Castillo
June 25, 2008
Yolanda and Edmundo,
My condolences. I never met your daughter but I know she was a wonderful person because you were her parents. If there is anything I can do to assist, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Linda Glomski
June 17, 2008
Veronica & Family:
Sorry for your loss. At this time you have a heavy cross to carry. May the kindness of family and friends sustain you. Time will ease the pain; memories will be treasures.
Thinking of you,
Linda, Bowling Green St. Univ.
Jessica Moshfeghian-Prado
June 15, 2008
Dear Jim, Madeleine and family,
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. I will always remember Rebecca with a smile and a comical retort. My prayers are with you at this sad time.
Ada & Donald Rottler
June 13, 2008
Dear Yolanda and Mundo,
I am so very sorry about Rebecca's passing. Reliving the beautiful memories that you shared will help ease the pain and keep her alive. Lean on God's Love during these difficult times and He'll get you through it all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With love.
Ofelia Torres
June 12, 2008
Yolanda and Mundo, my prayers and sincere condolences are with both of you and the rest of the family. What happened is unthinkable, may the Lord in his infinite love and grace take you through this difficult time. May He bless your grandaughter
Mary Carmen Gonzalez
June 11, 2008
Dear Yolanda and Mundo,
My family and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy at this most difficult time. We will pray that the Lord will give you strength. Rebecca has left wonderful memories.
Love,
Jorge and Luisa Alvarez
June 11, 2008
Dear friends Yolanda and Mundo:
We are praying for you and your family at this most difficult time. A few days ago we were looking at pictures taken by Mundo of Jorge Oscar and Rebequita when they were just a few months old. It seems like we just blinked and all of these years went by...
Love and remember you always,
Juan Medina
June 11, 2008
To The Garcia and Foward Families,
My heart goes out to you on your tragic loss. I remember Rebecca, for being so goofy and out spoken...God Bless You...
Juan Medina & Family
Omar Guerra
June 11, 2008
To the Garcia and Forward Families,
My deepest condolences goes out to both families at this time. Rebecca will be missed and not forgotten.
Marina Garcia Herrera
June 11, 2008
Dear Garcia and Forward Families:
You are in my prayers during this difficult time. I remember Rebecca from High School, but when I think of her I remember the jokes and smiles.
She will be dearly missed.
brandy greer (zornes)
June 10, 2008
Jim,Veronica, and family
I am so sorry for your lose.Rebecca was a wonderful! Every high school memory I have has her in it.She was dearly loved!!
Chandler Coy
June 10, 2008
Jim,
I am very sorry for your loss. Rebecca's memories will be carried on in a positive and heartfelt light by all of those who were blessed to have known her. My heart goes out to your family.
Agnes Colaneri
June 10, 2008
Dear Yolanda,
I was deeply sorry to learn about Rebecca's passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. You will all be remembered in my prayers.
Agnes Colaneri
from Emerson HS
Lydia Pieroni
June 10, 2008
Yolanda- I can't begin to express how my heart aches for you. I pray that you will find the strength to get you through this terrible time.
And old friend- Lydia Pieroni
Clayton Kindel
June 10, 2008
Jim,
My heart goes out to you. I hope you find peace. God bless you
Angie Gallegos-Coronado
June 9, 2008
Mrs. Garcia,
I was very saddened to learn about the loss of your daughter. I pray that God gives you the strength that you need during this difficult time. You and your family are in my thoughts. Mario sends his condolences too. From one of your high school French students (angélique, ces't né pas la classe de cosmétologie...),
Christina Contreras Villa
June 9, 2008
Forward and Garcia Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Some of my best days in college were spent with Rebecca (& Jim) and her crew from the Science Academy. She had a beautiful spirit and personality. May God bless you through this difficult time.
Diana Dominguez
June 8, 2008
I am so sorry for your lost. Becca was a wonderful coworker.
L. GoLightly
June 7, 2008
To Rebecca's Family,
My condolences go out to you all. I pray that you all keep living life just like she would want you all to. I will keep on praying for all of you! I worked with Mrs. Forward in Progreso for two years, she always brought joy and laughter to a room as soon as she walked in. She will always be remembered. God Bless all of You!
Eva Guerra
June 6, 2008
To Rebecca's Family,
I worked with your daughter and wife for a short time in Progreso. I clearly remember Rebecca as a happy person who was always smiling. I was extremely saddened to hear of the news. She will be greatly missed by many. As the days go on, I wish you much comfort and I send you my prayers each day full of God's love, mercy, and kindness. Rebecca is in a better place and rest assured that her memory will live on through your grandchild. Again, I am truly sorry for your loss.
your neighbors, Valdez Family
June 5, 2008
We are so sorry to hear about the
loss of your daughter, we'll keep
your family in our prayers.
Joe Califa
June 5, 2008
Yolanda and Mundo, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that our prayers for you and your family can help you. Trust that she is in a better place. Love, Nydia and Joe Califa
Aracely Garcia (USDA)
June 5, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Maruchi & Tony Roche
June 5, 2008
Yolanda Y Mundo,
Cuanto sentimos la muerte de Rebecca. Los acompanamos en su dolor. Aunque han pasado muchos anos, siempre lor recordamos con carino. Que Dios les de fuerza.
Rachel Rivera
June 5, 2008
Veronica and Family: My heart aches for you and your family! There are no words to be said to ease the pain. My prayers are with you and your family and feel the arms that surround you during your need of comfort. If there is anything I can do, PLEASE do not hesitate to call me!
Janet Smith Thomas
June 5, 2008
Dear Yolanda,
It has been so so many years, but when I heard about Rebecca, it seemed like yesterday. I remember when she was born. It seems unbelievable and I feel for you greatly. I am so very sorry. You and your family are in my prayers. Love, Janet Smith Thomas
Felix Garcia
June 5, 2008
Jim,
I was shocked to hear of your loss. Please know how very sorry I am. My heart goes out to you & Madeleine as well as the Garcia and Forward families. Rebecca was truely a wondeful person and this is such a tragic loss. I offer you my most heartfelt condolences.
May God bless you all,
Felix & Melba Garcia
Jose & Adela Vazquez
June 4, 2008
Estamos unidos a ustedes en su dolor. Estamos rezando por Rebecca y por todos ustedes.
Jessica Marie Ramirez
June 4, 2008
My dearest friend Coca and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in my thoughts by day and prayers by night.
Richard Drewry
June 4, 2008
Ed and Yolanda:
My sincere condolences for your loss. With Sincere Sympathy.
Richard Drewry
Fernando Rivas
June 4, 2008
The news of Rebecca's death greatly saddened me. I was married to her aunt, Elena Garcia, and since my divorce from Elena I have had no news of the McAllen branch of the Garcia family. I heard from a friend in New Jersey that Rebecca had passed away. I have fond memories of her as a baby and small child and only wish I could have known her as an adult. I extend condolences to her husband and family.
Richard Hinojosa
June 4, 2008
Edmundo and Yolanda: I just heard the news of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I can not express in words the sadness I feel for both of you. May God Bless your daughter and May God provide you the strength and love to endure the days ahead.
With Sincere Sympathy.
Richard M. Hinojosa
Marc Villalobos
June 4, 2008
Jim, Baby Madeleine Grace and Family,
In this time of loss, no words can ease the pain of losing a friend, a sister, a daughter, a wife, and mother. May God rest His hand over you and your family and reveal His unending love for you. We can only hold on to the hope of someday reuniting with our passed loved ones in His glorious presence. I pray for peace and healing for you and your family. God bless you.
Christina Sosa (Duck)
June 4, 2008
Garcia and Forward Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. I am so sorry for your loss. Your new baby girl will bring you joy and carry on rebecca's memory.
Mike Arredondo & family
June 4, 2008
It is with a heavy heart that I write these words of condolences to you and yours on this hard occassion that does confront us in our lives. You and your family will be in our prayers to comfort and support you in this hour of need.
Rosemary Cuevas
June 4, 2008
Rebecca,
You were always smiling and very willing to help. I always enjoyed having you in my library science classes, we were often goofing off. :-) You will be deeply missed and I know you are with the angels and the Lord in heaven.
Kris Sautter
June 4, 2008
To all the family.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during these days. Please find comfort and support with the love of friends and family to get you through the shock of this.
Love ya Veronica. Stay strong and call me anytime.
Patrick Moran
June 4, 2008
Dear Jim: My condolences to you and your family on your great loss. Please let me know if there is any way I can help you. I'm sure that everyone at the USDA in Weslaco who knows you feels the same way.
Ed Stein
June 4, 2008
Jim,
I am sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathy. May God be
with you, your daughter and family.
Ed Stein (McAllen, Texas)
Eloy and Cindy Olivarez
June 4, 2008
Mundo and Yolanda,
Even though we did not have the pleasure of meeting your daughter, Rebecca, we feel great sadness for your sudden loss. She was blessed to have you as parents and now you are blessed with a beautiful granddaughter. Please know you are in our prayers and have trust and faith in God's will. Remember that God brought you to this and He will see you through it.
Deborah Rubio
June 4, 2008
May you rest with the angels
Blanca and David Rodriguez
June 4, 2008
Ed and Yolanda, our prayers are with you.
Jose Foster
June 4, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Priscilla Bernal
June 4, 2008
I didn't have the great honor in knowing you or your family but prayers are you with you all. I actually work in the hospital where Rebecca laid to rest.. I'm sure we did what we could, and I am just so sorry for your loss. I'm sure she was a great and beautiful person [in and out] After such tragedy something beautiful happens and I'm sure Rebecca will live through her daughters eyes. Her daughter is beautiful by the way. I'm sorry for your loss.. May God Bless each and everyone of yall:]
Paul Garcia
June 4, 2008
Veronica & family and Forward family,
We are saddened to hear about the loss of your loved one. I know this is a hard time, so know that you can rely on God during this time of vulnerability. You all, including Rebecca, are in our prayers.
Coca, I know losing your sibling, especially when you were close, is very hard. If you need anything please don't hesitate to contact me.
Love,
Paul, Gracie, & Isabela Garcia
Tiffany Andresen
June 3, 2008
Dear Jim -
I cannot even imagine what you must be going through at this moment. Please know that my thoughts and my prayers are with you.
Susanna Lieu
June 3, 2008
In the short time since meeting Mrs. Forward, I never knew her without a smile. Her voice, which embodied her whole personality, was loud and funny. A chuckle trapped inside of each sentence she spoke, a humorous rolling of the eye, a twist of the head as she spoke, is what I will keep in my memory. She was a person that really cared about the kids in Progreso. I could feel this in the way that she knew almost every child by name and also by their personality. Mrs. Forward never held back. She wore funny costumes, mismatched socks, crazy hair and party pajamas, all to get children excited about books!
We all sat together for lunch and Mrs. Forward was never without some loving expression of her husband Jim, and of her parents, and of her dogs. She was a lovely person and she lived her life in a very special and caring way, and that is why so many people mourn her loss, and why so many of us will go on to remember her as one of the most wonderful persons we have ever known. May her legacy of love bring you comfort at this time. Respectfully yours,
Adriana Salinas
June 3, 2008
Para La Familia Forward Garcia
Mrs. Yolanda Garcia no tengo palabras para decirle cuanto lo siento. Se le fue su hija pero le dejo el mejor regalo del mundo el angelito de su nieta. Que Dios la bendiga a usted y a toda su familia
Oma Davis
June 3, 2008
I am very sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Mr. & Mrs. Mark & Yara Corbitt
June 3, 2008
For Rebecca's Family:
I am deeply saddened by your loss. Our Lord works in ways that we must strive to understand. It is difficult for us to be overwhelmed with joy for your new addition, yet overcome with sadness for your loss. Please have faith in God, as he has a plan for us all. Our love and prayers will be with you.
Gabe Lopez
June 3, 2008
I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts.
ROBERT AND PATSY PRASEK
June 3, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Betsy Warwas
June 3, 2008
Mrs. Yolanda Garcia and family:
My deepest sympathy during this time. May God's blessings be with you and your family.
Janina (Besa) Siebert
June 3, 2008
Jim, I'm heartbroken and mad at this tragic loss. It's too soon for this, and I can't imagine what you're going thru. We all loved Rebecca so much. She was such a beautifully genuine and fabulous person. Her fun spirit and laughter was wonderfully contagious. I'm so proud to have known her, and to have been able to see the true love that you had for each other.
Rebecca was one of those really "neato" people who most of us want to be more like, but we just don't have the nerve. Because of her example, Rebecca inspired me a really long time ago to "belt out" a little bit of sparkling personality to the world. I'm grateful for her lesson. She showed us all that our time is too short not to be all that we are and also nerdy, goofy, happy & loving. I just can't believe this stupid mess, and I want you to know that all my love is with you and your sweet girl, Madeleine. I know that Rebecca will always be with you both, but I'm still so sorry for your loss.
...
Rubi Saenz
June 3, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Shirley Dulworth
June 3, 2008
Rebecca touched my life only briefly, but in an extraordinary way during our work/study trip to NYC and DC last summer. Her contagious smile, bubbly personality, and song for every occassion kept our group smiling and laughing all the time. She will be greatly missed. My prayers are with your family.
Janie Vega
June 3, 2008
Yolanda Garcia, and entire family,
you are in our hearts and prayers for comfort and support during such a horrible time of grief and loss. May the almighty Lord provide you peace knowing you always were there for your daughter. Know the staff at La Joya High School love and care for you very much.
God bless, Janie Vega
Alejandro Almanza
June 3, 2008
Jim,
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your wife. I have fond memories of her in school high school and the gatherings post high school. My heart goes out to you and your family. Love,
Alejandro
Elizabeth Criado Foster
June 3, 2008
Jim, Madeleine, Mr. and Mrs. Garcia, Veronica,
There are no words. My heart aches for your loss. What a good friend with such a giving heart.
Julie Molina
June 3, 2008
Becca was the life of our study travel group last summer. Her passion for life was contagious. I will cherish the brief moments our paths met. God bless you in your time of sorrow.
Yolanda Trdla
June 3, 2008
Yolanda, como siento haber oído de tu hija. Espero que Dios te bendiga y te dé la fuerza para aceptar sus deseos. Mis pensamientos y oraciones están contigo y con tu familia. Con todo cariño
June 3, 2008
Yolanda and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May GOD continue to provide you with strength, faith and love. Bea Jones & fam.
Sandra Estrada
June 3, 2008
Rebecca was such a great asset to the students at Progreso, she will be missed by all who knew her.
The great lord realized he needed an angel in heaven so he decided to take one to help him out.
Velma Zapata
June 3, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Carol Mackie
June 3, 2008
To all the family,
I am praying that God gives you the graces you need to accept this painful cross. May our Lord draw you closer to Him in your time of need. My heart and my prayers go out to all of you.
Mother of Kimberly Mackie
Becky Ramirez
June 3, 2008
Garcia and Forward Families~
Words cannot express the sorrow i feel for your families. My heart goes out to you, Jim, Veronica, Mrs. and Mr Garcia, Mattie, and all of your family. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
CTL Staff BGSU
June 3, 2008
We, the former and current staff of The Center for Teaching and Learning at BGSU extend our deepest sympathy and condolences in your time of mourning.
Michelle Martinez
June 3, 2008
Words cannot express my condolenses to such a beautiful person who touched my life and the life of others. We are with you Jim and your family.
Patricia Martinez
June 3, 2008
Jim,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It was sad to hear about Tonya, and now Rebecca. She was such an awesome person. I pray that the lord help you over come this pain so that you can care for your little one the way Rebecca would have done so.
Connie Graham
June 3, 2008
Jim and Madeleine, Family,
Jim no words can express the sadness that I know you are feeling. I pray for healing for you and your daughter. Memories and Faith, hold on to them both and she will always be with you. God bless you and your family. Connie Graham
Roel and Maria Cantu
June 3, 2008
Yolanda, Mundo and family... Please accept our deepest sympathies. Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Lisa S. Sanchez (former ProgresoISD employee)
June 3, 2008
Rebecca had a great smile and an awesome personality that would brighten any room. I'm sure that her daughter will possess these traits and her legacy will continue in her. May God bring comfort to her family, friends and co-workers.
Lucy Longoria
June 3, 2008
Yolanda and family, my deepest condolenses go to you and your family. May God Bless You in this time of sorrow.
Liz Perkins
June 3, 2008
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know that they are happy. Peace and blessings to you during this tragic time, Liz (Rainwater) Perkins
Viola Canales
June 3, 2008
I offer my deepest condolences on this great loss. May God give you strength to live on for Rebecca's child; for through her she is with you
Laura Mendiola Macias
June 3, 2008
My family will be praying for you and the loss of your loved one. May you find peace knowing that she is now in the grace of our Lord.
Homero & Linda Diaz
June 3, 2008
Edmundo and Yolanda and family,
We were saddened to hear of your great loss. We only wish we could be with you in your time of sorrow. Be assured you have all our love and heartfelt sympathy.
adan Farias
June 3, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Alfredo Huerta
June 3, 2008
Mr. and Ms. Edmundo Garcia
May god give you the strength to get over the heartache and sorrow over your daughter's passing. Your friend , Alfredo Huerta.
Russell Sheetz
June 3, 2008
Jim,
I'm truly sorry about Rebecca. As you know, I lost my sister on May 21 and although I cannot fathom losing my wife, I can understand the void that you must feel. I am so sorry man, my prayers are with you and your family.
russell
Anna Lissa Gessner/Dr. Brad Gessner
June 3, 2008
Yolanda & family.....Jim and Madeleine....Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. It was a shock to hear of Rebecca's passing. May the Lord provide you with courage and strength to continue her life through her child. It was only yesterday when both Jim and Rebecca were walking through the halls at the Science Academy. Memories will never be forgotten! Hugs, love & kisses!
Ricardo Omar and Sylvia Ramirez
June 3, 2008
To the family of Rebecca Forward, We would like to extend our condolences on this very difficult time . May the Lord give you the peace and strength that only he can offer through his grace. With deepest sympathy,
Leobardo and Leticia Ramirez
June 3, 2008
To the family of Rebecca G. Forward we want to extend our most sincere condolences in this time of sorrow.
Amelia Thompson
June 3, 2008
Peace be with you. God bless you.
veronica palacios
June 3, 2008
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Marjie Podzielinski
June 3, 2008
On behalf of all the Library Students and Alumni of SHSU I want to tell you how much your daughter meant to us. To share her love of reading with others is a true blessing. We will pray for your family and little Madeleine Grace. God Bless you all.
Jennifer Cavazos
June 2, 2008
May the Lord be with your family during this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
John Goolsby
June 2, 2008
Jim, Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your precious new daughter, and family. Goolsby family
Ruby Tijerina
June 2, 2008
May God bless the family during this time of heartache. Rebecca was an angel who touched the lives of many.
Claudia Paredes
June 2, 2008
Thinking of your family.
Edgar Gonzalez
June 2, 2008
Rebecca was a great person. It is true. I remember her always singing and always happy. We will mis her so much.
Sandy Pedraza
June 2, 2008
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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