John Barrington Forbes

John Forbes was my 1st editor when I began a photo career in NYC in 1981. He was always kind, thoughtful and professional. Having read some of the memories here I wish I had taken the opportunity to get to know him outside of the Times building beyond a few occasions. Unfortunately at the time I was too narrowly focused. I've thought of you many times over the years, John. You gave me my start. I'll always be grateful and thank you for that. You died too young. Alison Perry

I knew John at the TIMES during my own years there. He was someone I admired and had numerous conversations with. I just learned of his pass. RIP, John.

Think where man's glory most begins and ends, And say my glory was I had such friends. William Butler Yeats

Many loving wishes to John's family, the St. Cecilia Chorus and all who had the privilege of knowing him for even a short time as I had. What a kind and warm person he was- someone who could always make you smile.

The New York Lacrosse Club is greatly saddened to have learned of John’s passing.
He had a significant impact on the NYLC in the mid-nineteen sixties with his terrific reporting of its activities both on and off the playing field.
We know that he was looking forward, as were we, to the 40th reunion in March 2008. But his memory will be honored with displays of his sparkling and inimitable reportage.
In great sadness
Sincerely,
The New York Lacrosse Club

Yes I knew John - as much as one can say one knows another. Through the years, we had an on-again, off-again relationship - sharing stories, friendship, life. He remains very dear to me - very much a part of my heart and the fondest of memories. I miss him very much.

I did not know John personally that well,but loved to see him take charge of every concert with such
great organization,as well as humor.I had great respect and admiration for him,and enjoyed singing with him. I know how much
he will be missed.

John Forbes was a class act, a generous man who gave so much wisdom and laughter to many of us, especially fellow St. Cecilia Chorus members. I met John shortly after I joined the Chorus about 27 years ago, and I will treasure all the time we spent singing together in Carnegie Hall, the church concerts and, of course, the South Street Seaport. As a fellow Board member, I'll always remember how he could keep us all on track and get us back to the meeting agenda and also the talk-filled taxi...

John was the heart and soul of the St. Cecilia Chorus. He held us together with his astonishing sense of humor and take-charge persona. Singing in the bitter cold on a tree in the Seaport was always more enjoyable when John was one of the "elfs." John's stories about his childhood, his family nanny, and the escapades at the Met kept us dissolved in tears of laughter.

John will be greatly missed.