Joseph Forbes, SgtMaj (retired), of Slidell, Louisiana was born on June 21, 1945 in Cuba, Missouri to George and Gertie (Cooksey) Forbes and passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at the age of 80 years.
He was a graduate of the Cuba High School class of 1963.
In 1967 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving for 30 years. He began his career in aviation support equipment maintenance before transitioning to a Drill Instructor in Parris Island, South Carolina. He advanced through the ranks, ultimately serving as Sergeant Major for an A-6 squadron, a Marine Aircraft Group, and concluding his career as the Sergeant Major for the Marine Corps Reserve.
His three decades of service included deployments around the globe, with tours in both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Shield/Storm.
Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, Joe settled in Slidell, Louisiana, where he worked with Endeavor Enterprises until his retirement in 2017.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Kay Forbes; and brother, George Tom Forbes.
He is survived by his companion of 25 years, Donna Sison of Slidell, Louisiana; children, Keith (Dailene) Forbes of Steelville, Missouri, Craig Forbes of Georgia, Scott (Morgan) Forbes of Louisiana, Shelley (Kevin) Luscy of Louisiana and Keith (Gretchen) Sison of Louisiana; grandchildren, Kaitlynne, Alyssa (Kenny), Peyton, Cassidy, Jackson, Katherine, Lucy, Dane and Jordan; great grandchildren, Noah and Lynnde with Parker on the way; other relatives and friends.
Visitation was held from 9-11 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026 at Honaker Funeral Home in Slidell, Louisiana.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026 at Honaker Funeral Home in Slidell, Louisiana.
Burial in Biloxi National Cemetery at a later date.
Arrangements under the direction of the Honaker Funeral Home in Slidell, Louisiana.
