Jeannine Forbes

Jeannine R. (Prince) Forbes, 89, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born September 18, 1934, in Manchester, New Hampshire, she was the beloved daughter of the late Raoul A. and Irene (Vachon) Prince. Jeannine graduated from Manchester Central High School in 1952. She obtained her Associate of Arts degree from Westbrook Junior College in 1954 and her Bachelor of Science in Education from Lesley College in 1956, where she was a member of the Delta Psi Omega Dramatic Fraternity.

Jeannine's life was distinguished by her dedication to both education and family. She grew up in Manchester, New Hampshire, where she met the late Bruce Forbes, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Together they had two daughters, Stephanie Forbes and Kimberley Forbes-McKean, who were the source of her deep pride and love. She was a devoted wife and mother. While caring for her family, she pursued a career as a pre-school and kindergarten teacher. Her love for teaching was obvious as she often spent extra hours outside of the classroom preparing special lessons and crafts for her students. She later transitioned to a position at Digital Corporation, where her love for learning allowed her to acquire exceptional skills in the areas of computers and technology. 

Her commitment to family was further demonstrated when her first grandchild Scott was born in 1996. She and Bruce relocated to Downingtown, Pennsylvania so that she could be a full-time grandmother to him and later his sister Madeline (Maddie). Affectionately known as “Mom-Mom,” she was a constant presence in their lives, developing a very special, unbreakable bond. Her passion for teaching returned as she spent many days lovingly sharing her experience as a pre-school teacher with her own grandchildren.

Jeannine and Bruce eventually retired to Fort Myers, Florida, where she enjoyed her love of sunshine and relaxing on the beach. She relished it even more when her family came to visit, especially her grandchildren. She found immense joy in their company over the years, whether in person or through many hours on FaceTime.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jeannine found solace and happiness in life’s simple pleasures, such as the beach, cooking, baking cookies, bird-watching, enjoying meals with family and friends, and spending time with her faithful cat Muffy, who brought her comfort and companionship for many years. She had a passion for puzzles, doing crafts and sharing late-night snacks with her grandchildren. Her wonderful sense of humor and joyous laugh allowed her to make friends wherever she lived, and she always made everyone around her feel special.

Jeannine's kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in eternal peace, always surrounded by the love of those she cherished.

Jeannine was predeceased by her husband, Bruce, in 2010 and her brother, Raoul L. “Roy” Prince in 2019. Left to honor her memory are her loving daughters Stephanie Forbes and her fiancé Mark Collier, Kimberley Forbes-McKean, wife of Rob McKean, her beloved son-in-law, and her adored grandchildren, Scott and Madeline, all whom brought her immense happiness. Additionally, Jeannine cherished her nieces, nephews, and their families: Celeste (Prince) Ludwig and her husband, Ronald, Greg Prince and his wife, Teresa, Janice (Robinson) Thibault and her late husband, John, Tom Robinson, and Cindy (Seward) Bradshaw and her husband, John.

A memorial reception will be held on Saturday, April 6 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Spring Mill Senior Living, 3000 Balfour Circle, Phoenixville, PA. 

A memorial and prayer service will also be held on Saturday, May 11 at 11:30 a.m. at Mount Calvary Cemetery and Mausoleum, 474 Goffstown Road, Manchester, NH.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all the staff, caretakers, and friends at Spring Mill Senior Living in Kimberton, PA for the exceptional care and compassion they provided as they spent time and cared for Jeannine during the past year.
 
In lieu of flowers, Jeannine's memory can be honored through her love of animals. Memorial contributions may be made to Main Line Animal Rescue, 1149 Pike Springs Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425 (www.mlar.org; Venmo @mainlineanimalrescue).