Edith Forbes

Edith Forbes, affectionately known as "Little One," was born on May 10, 1963, in

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Sanders Bimbow and Geraldine Herod. She was one of

several loving siblings - Rochelle Falligan, Vivian Rainey, Reginald Herod, and her dear

sister who preceded her in death, Gloria Jean "Baby" McCray. She also shared a lifelong,

unbreakable bond with her beloved aunt, Gloria Jean Smith, who remained a source of

guidance and love throughout her life.

Edith was raised in the Logan section of Philadelphia, where her vibrant personality

began to shine early. She attended neighborhood schools and later graduated from

Strawberry Mansion High School, where she was known for her lively sense of humor,

kindness, and unmistakable presence. Her laughter was infectious, her energy magnetic

- she made everyone feel seen and valued.

In her youth, Edith embraced motherhood with deep devotion. She gave birth to her first

son, Woodrow Gaines, on May 7, 1982, and later welcomed her second son, Aaron Murray.

To her, being a mother was not a role - it was a calling. She nurtured her boys with love,

strength, and unwavering dedication, instilling in them the values of honesty, faith, and

perseverance.

Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren - Tyree Tyler, Amir Tyler Gaines,

Aaliyah Gaines, and Nylah Gaines - each of whom became her heart's delight. She also

leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who adored her

dearly.

In 1986, Edith made one of the most significant decisions of her life when she joined

Christian Stronghold Church. Her faith became her foundation, guiding her through life's

joys and challenges. She was known for her steadfast spirit and her genuine love for God

- a love reflected in her kindness toward others and her willingness to serve.

Years later, destiny brought her together with Jan Forbes, a man who shared her

honesty, humor, and heart. Their relationship was built on friendship first - a deep

understanding that grew naturally over time. They balanced each other perfectly: she,

vibrant and intuitive; he, steady and sincere.

One evening, while dining together at a restaurant surrounded by laughter and the

warmth of their connection, Jan proposed. Edith's eyes filled with joy as she said yes -

not just to a marriage, but to a lifelong partnership rooted in love, respect, and faith.

They were married on April 2, 2010, in a ceremony that reflected who they were as a

couple - genuine, devoted, and deeply bonded. Together, they shared a love that was

straightforward and honest, full of laughter and understanding. Jan often said that she

could finish his sentences - or stop them before they began - with just a look or a

playful "Shhh, I already know what you're going to say."

Their love was quiet but powerful, the kind that spoke without words. They were true

partners in life, walking side by side through every season with grace and unity.

Throughout her life, Edith was known for her compassion, her humor, and her fierce

loyalty to the people she loved. She was a woman of strength and spirit - one who

taught those around her to love deeply, forgive quickly, and live with purpose.

Her legacy is one of love, laughter, faith, and family - a legacy that will live on in the

hearts of all who knew her.