Phillip Edward Forbes, 83 years old, died in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Sunday, October 22, 2017.

While recovering from a leg injury at Cleary Grove Nursing Home and Rehabilitation, he suffered a seizure and passed away suddenly.

Phil was born in Lisbon Falls, Maine, December 20, 1934, to George and Rowena Verge Forbes.

He was predeceased by his wife, Rose Marie Reid, whom he married in Clifton Forge, Virginia, April 4, 1959.

He is survived by his brother, Verge Forbes; his son, Mark Edward Forbes, and his two daughters, Diane Marie Ulman and Pamela Reid Platt; his seven grandchildren: Anna Maria Marciano, Chadwick Mitchell Forbes, Angela Marie Autin, Zachary Edward Ulman, Trinity Rose Strauss, Jacqueline Morgan Strauss, and Sydney Grace Strauss; and his five great-grandchildren: Alice Marie Autin, Jacob Edward Forbes, Oliver Phillip Autin, McKenzie Elizabeth Forbes, and Derek Ryan Autin.

He graduated in 1957 from University of Maine, with a Bachelor of Science in Pulp and Paper Technology, and moved to the Clifton Forge and Covington area to work at Westvaco. He retired from Westvaco after 44 years of work with the company, primarily in data processing and database management.

He was a positive and steady influence on all those who knew him. He was wise, strong, caring, and dedicated; he used to say, "The best thing you can give your kids is a good example." His grandchildren and great grandchildren brought much joy and happiness to his life.

He enjoyed woodworking, reading, travel, puzzles, and spending time with family.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Alleghany Memorial Park, Low Moor (7008 Winterberry Avenue, Covington, VA) with Reverend Paul Brokaw officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge.

The Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge is handling arrangements.