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John Forbes Obituary
He earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Alma College in 1959, a MA in Music Education from Central Michigan University in 1962, and a MA in Library Science from the University of Kentucky in 1978. In 1974 he completed a Ph.D. in Music History/Music Education at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Forbes taught music in Michigan Public Schools for ten years, served on the music faculty at Berea College, KY (1971-1977), then turned to Academic Librarianship. As Appalachian Librarian at Morehead State University (KY) from 1978 to 1980 he developed the Appalachian Collection. From 1980 he served as Director of Libraries at Baker University in Kansas. He retired in 1999 but continued as Curator of Baker's Quayle Rare Bible Collection until 2008.
John played music for folk dance groups, volunteered in local libraries, and tutored students in reading.
John Forbes was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Andrew (1943) and Donald (1995), and a daughter, Rhomylly Bronwen Forbes (2011). He is survived by his sister Joyce (Sparky) Hallead, Avinger, TX, granddaughter Keely Garman of Ellettsville, IN, former wife Sylvia Miller Forbes, Baldwin City, KS, and partner Carol Gailey, Lexington, KY.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Forbes
2 Entries
Ken Lassman
August 22, 2018
I have fond memories of John's music-making at a variety of folk dance venues. His smiles, music and banter are an enduring legacy of those days where he shared his gifts with the community.
marion roberts
August 17, 2018
John was a fine man, musician and caring colleague. Great memories of him. My sympathy to his family for the loss to this world of this kind and eloquent gentleman.
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