Obituary of Phyllis Forward

The family of Phyllis Forward of Crocker’s Cove, Carbonear announces her passing on June 22, 2026, after a six-month battle with cancer and a lifetime of adversity, faced with courage and determination, and a spirit that will be remembered always. 

Predeceased by her special friend: Winston King; parents: Melvin and Phoebe Jane Forward; sisters: Elsie Forward and Joan Penney; and sister-in-law: Wanda Forward.

Leaving to mourn with cherished memories are her brothers: Guy Forward (Shirley), Boyd Forward (Pauline), and Wade Forward; brother-in-law: Bob Penney; her special niece: Elsie Lynch (Wade); her close friend and roommate: Joan Jackson; and the many residents and staff of Lane's Retirement Living, Carbonear. Phyllis is also lovingly remembered by, Aunt Mary St. George, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

The Forward family would like to extend sincere thanks to the many people who ensured Phyllis was always treated with kindness, care, and respect throughout her battle with cancer, especially the staff and residents of Lane's Retirement Living, the staff of the Emergency Department at Carbonear General Hospital, the doctors and nurses who cared for Phyllis during her hospital stay, Dr. Dawn Armstrong and the staff of the H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, and Phyllis's past caregivers.

Phyllis will always be remembered for her cheerful spirit, determination, and remarkable independence. Residents of Crocker’s Cove will recall her learning to ride her bike around the Cove - first on her three-wheeled bike and later embracing a newfound sense of freedom on her two-wheeled bike, complete with a basket for carrying treasures and trinkets alike. 

Phyllis certainly knew what she liked and what she didn’t, and she never hesitated to let others know. She was a devoted fan of Elvis Presley and cherished his music, along with any memorabilia or knick-knack bearing his image.

She loved spending time with friends, enjoying colouring, word searches, and a good game of cards. Her years at Lane’s were filled with laughter, friendship, and fun, as she embraced every social opportunity that came her way.

In her final months, she dearly missed sharing meals with her Lane’s family and looked to her own family to help fill that void, often requesting a favourite treat. Few could say no to Phyllis, especially when she was quick to point out that she “couldn’t even look at” what had been served for supper. Before long, a sub from Subway or some popcorn chicken would appear, bringing a smile to her face.

Phyllis made many friends throughout her life, and her carefree spirit, strong will, and love of life left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. 

As Elvis sang in his 1957 hit, Peace in the Valley, we take comfort in the words: "There will be peace in the valley."

May she now rest in that peace.

Visitation at Noel’s Funeral Home, Water Street, Carbonear on Thursday, June 25 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Funeral service to take place on Friday, June 26 at 2:00 p.m. from Noel’s Memorial Chapel, Carbonear.

Interment at Bethany United Cemetery, Carbonear.

Donations in Phyllis’ memory can be made to the Salvation Army Food Bank, P. O. Box 137, Carbonear, NL, A1Y 1B6.