Golden Forbes passed away peacefully and joined her family in Heaven on October 14, 2025 at the age of 93. Golden was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend. Her life was a radiant example of grace, resilience, and unconditional love.

Born on February 16, 1932, Golden grew up in Deltaville, Virginia, where she was raised with strong values of faith, family, and community. She spent most of her life in Hampton, Virginia, building a home filled with warmth and kindness.

Golden was the daughter of the late William Francis Marchant and Claudia Mae Scrimger Marchant. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vivian Foster Forbes; her beloved son, Leland "Bud" Forbes; and her siblings, William Scrimger Marchant, Howard Leland Marchant, and Claudia Frances Hall.

She retired from the Williamsburg Police Department in 1993 after years of dedicated service. Following retirement, Golden found joy in working at her son's law firm in Hampton, where she continued to share her wisdom, humor, and steady presence with those around her.

Golden loved the simple things in life -- quiet mornings, heartfelt conversations, and the joy of family gathered around her. Yet she had a flair for the elegant and refined, embracing the sparkle of fancy living with delight. Whether savoring a home-cooked meal or dressing up for a special occasion, she found joy in both the humble and the glamorous. Her life was a graceful balance of warmth and sophistication, and she lived it fully, with style and heart.

Golden was an avid fan of the Baltimore Orioles and NASCAR racing -- rarely missed watching a game or a race. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she loved sharing the excitement with family and friends. Golden was a member of the Newport News Moose Lodge and American Legion for many years.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she loved attending Liberty Baptist Church, where she found fellowship and spiritual strength -- until her health no longer allowed. In her later years, Golden faced Parkinson's disease and dementia with remarkable courage and grace. Even in the face of these challenges, her spirit remained strong, and her love for her family never wavered.

Golden is survived by her children: sons Stephen Foster Forbes and his wife Julie, and Bryon Marchant Forbes; daughters Paula Faye Holland, Pamela Scott Loving and her husband Preston, and Cindy Forbes Rico. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Alexis Forbes, Golden Jobst and her husband Billy, Kelly Sadler and her husband Sean, Bubba Jarrell and his wife Jessica, Samantha Strickland, Amber Holland, Raquel Loving, Peyton Loving, Vivian Rico, and Casey Rico.

Her legacy continues through her precious great-grandchildren: Austin Jobst, Madalyn Sadler, Symon Sadler, Gabriel Sadler, Aaron Sadler, Sadie Sadler, Mackenzie Sadler, Ryann Sadler, Bladen Jarrell, Lacy Catalano, Alex Strickland, Jordan Strickland, Zayden Howell, Dez Gonzalez, Angi Gonzalez, Jax Valentin, and Avani Gonzalez.

Golden also held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly: Aubrey Hall, Claudia Soucek, Wayne Hall, Frances Robb, Bill Marchant, and Howard Marchant.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 8th, 2025 from 3-5 P.M. at W.J. Smith and Son Funeral Home located at 210 Harpersville Road, Newport News, VA 23601.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Golden's honor to:

Liberty Baptist Church

1021 Big Bethel Road

Hampton, VA 23666

Or Jacob's Ladder

P.O. Box 3

Urbanna, VA 23175

Golden Forbes will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.