Leonard Gerard Forbes

Leonard G. Forbes, 72, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston on December 20, 2025, surrounded by loving family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Purcell Forbes, and daughters Devan Elizabeth Forbes and Hannah Aislinn Forbes. He was the devoted son of Leonard W. Forbes (d.) and Constance R. Forbes (Henderson) (d.) of Milton.

Born in Dorchester, Len's family moved to Milton when he was 11, where he established and maintained lifelong friendships. Throughout childhood, he continued his early commitment as a chorister at All Saints Church in Dorchester. A powerful swimmer, Len was a member of the Quincy YMCA competitive swim team and placed silver in the USA Junior Olympics. He then became captain of the swim team at the Huntington School in Boston, and went on to earn his bachelor of science degree and certification at Rivier College in NH, with a focus on Physical Therapy sciences.

Len worked for over 25 years as a physical therapist specializing in aquatic therapy at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. He was loved by coworkers and patients alike; in both his personal and professional lives, he made others feel at ease through his compassion and sense of humor.

Married for more than four decades, Len and Barbara built a home rooted in warmth, laughter, and unwavering support for their children and each other. Their marriage was steady and enduring, and they faced life's challenges together with strength and the resilience of humor. Len took deep pride in his daughters, and found his greatest happiness in time spent with his family and those he loved most. A passionate fisherman, he could often be found trolling around Cape Cod lakes in one of his boats, searching for (and usually finding) rainbow and brown trout.

Len was a man of integrity, empathy, and quiet strength. He will be lovingly remembered for his steady presence and generous heart by all who knew him.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on January 24 at noon at All Saints Church, Dorchester, MA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.