Gary L. Forrest, age 83, passed away on December 26, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at home in Fort Mill, SC.
A memorial service will be held at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church on January 3, 2026, at 1:00 pm, with Father Kevin officiating. His cremated remains will be interred the same day at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church.
Gary was born on September 12, 1942, in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1960–1968 and served in Southeast Asia. He was also a member of the V.F.W. and Disabled American Veterans. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service with 38 years of government service. His hobbies included pitching horseshoes, playing euchre and cribbage, gardening, spending time with family, and residing as Mayor of Eaton Ct. He was a member of and attended St. Philip Neri Catholic Church since moving to Fort Mill, SC, in 2008.
Gary was well know for his jokes and teasing people, but admired for always offering his help to family, friends and neighbors. He was extremely generous and thoughtful. He loved his beloved wife’s cooking so much he rarely wanted to eat out. His presence and impact in his grandchildren’s lives was immense and he leaves a lasting impact and a void words cannot express. He was very devoted to spending time with them and supporting them as he loved them dearly.
Gary is survived by his wife of 56 years, Patricia Forrest of Fort Mill, SC; one daughter, Tamara Swain (Matt) of York, SC; one son, Greg Forrest (Rebecca) of Clover, SC; three granddaughters, Lauren Dickey (Hunter) of Myrtle Beach, SC, Jaclyn Swain, and Reagan Swain of Rock Hill, SC; one grandson, Myles Forrest Kacin of Pittsburgh, PA; three sisters, twin sister Mary Dickinson (Bob) of Flint, MI, Nancy Parks (Phil) of Flint, MI, and Irene Forrest of Fort Wayne, IN; many nieces and nephews; and several “adopted” grandkids on Eaton Ct.
Gary was predeceased by his parents, Lyle and Dorothy Forrest; daughter, Carrie Forrest; sister, Shirley Pierce; and brother, Donald Forrest (Sharon).
Memorials may be made to Hospice & Community Care of Rock Hill.
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2049 Carolina Place Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29708

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