Donald P. Forrest

Donald P. Forrest, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and man of profound faith, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, at Bethany House, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 27, 1939, Donald lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and unwavering faith. Visitation will be held on Thursday April 16, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Vance Brooks Funeral Home - Columbus, located at 4048 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA 31907. The funeral service will take place at 2:00 PM, at the same location, with interment immediately after at Parkhill Cemetery.

Donald devoted many years of his career to sanitation work at the McCormick Spice Company, where he exemplified commitment and diligence until his well-earned retirement. He had a deep impact on his coworkers there, so much so that even recently some of his old buddies from work came to visit, 20 years after he had retired from the company. Beyond his professional life, he was a true people person who never met a stranger. Even in his most challenging moments, Donald’s great sense of humor shone through—frequently cracking jokes to bring a smile to his wife Jerlane’s face while quietly enduring his suffering without complaint. He was known for always having an encouraging word, lifting the spirits of those around him with genuine warmth and kindness.

In his youth, Donald enjoyed riding bikes and tinkering with cars, passions that spoke to his hands-on nature and love for discovery. More recently, he enjoyed his time at the Smith Station Senior Center and found joy in watching old westerns. But above all, Donald treasured every moment spent with his family, the pride and joy of his life.

Donald’s most proud achievements were deeply personal: his beloved family and his steadfast faith. He and his wife Jerlane, life-long sweethearts, shared over 63 years of marriage filled with love and partnership. Together, they raised a beautiful family.

A twenty-eight year member of Victory Life Tabernacle in Williamson, Georgia and, most recently, a longtime devoted member of River City Pentecostal Church, Donald was the embodiment of a man of God. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, inspiring him to witness to everyone he met about the unconditional love of Christ. In his final moments and throughout his journey, his family finds comfort in knowing that he has heard the heartfelt words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Donald is survived by his wife Jerlane Forrest; daughters Donna Forrest Wooddell (Raymond) and Julie Kennedy (David); sons Ronald Forrest and James Forrest; sister Mary Jane Brennan; grandchildren Ashlee (Corey), Crystal, Steven (Carlee), Cathy (Matthew), Jason (Haley), Katelyn (Sean), Preston, and Skylar (Weston); and great-grandchildren Lucas, Aria, Emma, Madison, Matt, Kylie, Hunter, and Bellamy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Edgar Forrest and Mamie Bell Hill Forrest; brother Richard Forrest; and his beloved granddaughter Kara Kennedy.

Donald P. Forrest’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and faith—a man whose kindness and strength touched every life he encountered. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him dearly.