Audrey Forrest

Audrey Jean Forrest (née Arrington), age 89, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, in Eugene, Oregon, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love of her devoted family, with her husband Fred faithfully by her side-an enduring testament to their 53 years of marriage and the vows they lived out daily.

Born on December 11, 1935, in Portland, Oregon, Audrey was the daughter of Edwin and Dorthy Arrington. She grew up alongside her siblings Jack Arrington, Janet Lucas, and Adele Willis, all of whom preceded her in death. Audrey's early life laid the foundation for a lifetime of compassion, creativity, and deep faith.

Audrey's journey through life was marked by resilience and grace. After the passing of her first husband, Dave H. Clark, in 1971, she continued to raise their children with strength and love. In time, she found lasting companionship with Fred L. Forrest. Together they built a home filled with warmth and welcome-a place where family gathered often and friends became family.

She is survived by her beloved husband Fred L. Forrest; her three children: Eric T. Clark of Eugene; Sean Clark (Valerie Randall) of San Francisco; Gwen C. Barnes (John Barnes) of Eugene; and one "adopted" daughter Stephanie Turner (Robert Turner) of Kentucky-each a cherished part of Audrey's heart.

Audrey was a proud grandmother to thirteen grandchildren and their spouses: Garrett Hanger (Heidi), Caleb Clark (Riley), Greta Hanger (Andrew), Taylor Clark, Victoria Clark, Stephanie Hockett (Dillon), Mercy Barnes, Josh Barnes (Dani), Kumeh Barnes, Hannah Barnes, Wil Turner Jr. (Austin), Maggie Turner Bennett (Jordan), and Charlie Turner (Grace). Her legacy continues through six great-grandchildren: Kent Clark, Vesta Clark, Gideon Hanger, Ashton Clark, Huxley Clark, and Peter Bennett.

A woman of many talents and passions, Audrey found joy in playing the piano and singing-often filling rooms with music that reflected her joyful spirit. She loved hiking through nature's beauty and capturing memories through scrapbooking. A lifelong learner at heart, she delighted in studying new languages and exploring new places through travel. Yet above all else, Audrey treasured time spent with her family-especially her grandchildren who brought endless delight to her days.

In 1974, Audrey gave her heart fully to Jesus Christ-a decision that shaped every aspect of her life from that moment forward. Her faith was unwavering and evident in how she lived: loving deeply, serving generously, and welcoming others into her ever-growing circle of care. Audrey had a unique gift for "collecting people"-children needing guidance or comfort; teens seeking direction; adults longing for connection-all found a place in Audrey's heart.

Her relationships were sacred to her. Whether through friendship or family ties-biological or chosen-Audrey nurtured bonds that endured across time and distance. Her home was always open; her arms always ready to embrace another soul into the fold.

Audrey Jean Forrest leaves behind a legacy rich in love, faithfulness, and compassion-a life well-lived in service to others and devotion to God. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness for generations to come. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Neighborhood Assembly of God 815 Irving Road. There will be a lunch fellowship following the service that all are invited to attend.