Joan Marie Forrest, 89, of Mexico, passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at her home.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Centralia.

Joan was born on December 24, 1934, in Centralia, the daughter of Joseph Anderson and Norma Ruth (Sims) Townsend. On October 21, 1956, at the First Baptist Church in Centralia, she married Robert Wayne Forrest. He passed away on August 24, 2011.

Mrs. Forrest had worked at the Moberly Hospital for five years until becoming a housewife for many years. She later returned to work at the Audrain County Health Department, where she helped with home care for many years.

Joan was a member of Lockewood Park Baptist Church in Mexico. She was a Sunday school teacher, mainly teaching young children. Mrs. Forrest loved going to church and was devoted to God. Her faith played a major role in her daily life.

Survivors include her sister, Carolyn Sue Pearson of Cincinnati, Ohio; one daughter, Tonya Denise Reams Minney (Charles R.) of Mexico; two grandchildren, Susan R. Bell of Nixa and Michael R. Minney of Mexico; and three great-grandchildren, Cayla R. Bell, Austin R. Bell and Allyssa Mosley.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Joan was preceded in death by one brother, Richard Wayne Townsend; and an infant son, Timothy Duane Reams.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lockewood Park Baptist Church, 1005 West Love Street, Mexico, MO 65265.