Dianne Forrest

Phyllis Dianne Forrest was born into a farming family and, apart from a few years spent in Texas, was raised on the farm set in the gentle hills east of Vici, Oklahoma. Her childhood memories were rich with the rhythms of rural life: pumping water from the well, playing in the corral water tank with her sisters Glenda and Arleata when their parents were away, sneaking kittens into the house despite strict rules, and winter nights warmed by hot bricks wrapped in newspaper tucked between the quilts. Saturdays were reserved for trips into town and matinees at the theater.

Her life changed course in high school when she met Rex, the young man who would eventually become her husband. They married on April 17, 1960 and spent the next 61 years together in a loving partnership, undertaking adventures along the way.

Dianne’s career was as varied as it was dedicated. She began as a part-time office assistant at a livestock auction barn and rose to become the office manager. Her strong work ethic led her to roles in various offices, a travel agency, and ultimately as an airline reservation agent.

She found joy in reading and cross-stitching, but her favorite moments were those that broke from routine; mid-week picnics, lakeside outings, concerts, and weekend get aways. Summers were spent escaping the heat for mountain air with close friends and family. In retirement, Dianne and Rex sold their home and took to the road in their RV, visiting loved ones and exploring the country together.

Dianne was preceded in death by her beloved husband Rex; parents Glen and Eythel Johnson of Vici, Oklahoma; sister Glenda Swafford of Mt. Pleasant, Texas; brothers-in-law Jim Forrest, Don Forrest, and Richard Croft of Oklahoma; sisters-in-law Linda Johnson, Arlene Schamburg and husband Loyd, Bonita Care, Belva Sutton, all of Oklahoma; and Billie Forrest of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Survivors include her son Danny and husband Daniel of Los Angeles, California; sister Arleata Urick and husband Jerry of Houston, Texas; brother Billy Johnson of Vici, Oklahoma; brothers-in-law Max Forrest of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Dale Swafford of Mt. Pleasant, Texas; Steve Care, Kenneth Forrest, and Buddy Sutton of Oklahoma; sisters-in-law Wilda Croft, Cherri Cadwell and husband Guy Jr. of Oklahoma; numerous relatives; and cherished life-long friends.

In accordance with her wishes, no memorial service will be held. Donations in Dianne’s honor may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.