Nadine L. Forrest (nee Hancock) passed away December 6th, 2018, two weeks after her husband James.
A native of Omaha, NE, she attended Central High School where she was involved in many clubs and activities including: Girls’ choir, Girls Senior Glee, Girls Junior Glee, Music Festival, Pianist for Glee Club, Girls’ State, Basketball, Class Officer, Sergeant-at-Arms, GAA, Girls Reserves, Ice Skating Club, Inter-American Club, Latin Club. She was also a teacher’s helper, a prophetic title, as she majored in Education at University of Nebraska, Omaha. She graduated the same year as her husband, James and her mother Thelma with a B.A. in education. Many years later she would receive her Masters from California State University, Hayward.
In 1961 she moved to California with her husband and three children. She loved being an elementary school teacher and taught for the Redwood City School district, a career that would span over 30 years. During her years as a teacher she served on the local teachers’ association in many roles, one of which was president.
She was involved in social issues, marching for civil rights during the 60’s with family in tow. She also served as president of Flair, a local women’s social club which provided a social outlet for the local African American community. Activities held included an annual family picnic and a formal gala. They also provided scholarships for local high school students.
Even after she retired from teaching, she used her talents to facilitate Bible studies with her husband in their home for many years.
She is predeceased by her husband of 67 years, James, and her sister Thelma Bates, half sister Mauderie Saunders, and a half brother Leonard. She is survived by her eldest son Stuart, two daughters, Gail (Kiyo) Huffman and Lynne (Neil) Cudden, three grandchildren, Bryan Huffman, Reiko Huffman, and Zoe Cudden and many nieces and nephews.
Her laughter will ring in our ears until we meet again.
Services will be held Friday, December 14th at the Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7900 E Main St. Mesa, AZ 85207. The service will be held at 10am.
Mrs. Forrest,
I loved you so much as my third grade teacher. I came across this as I was looking you up. I was telling my husband how we used to sing in your class and you played the piano. You taught me not to give up if I didnt know the answer. Always ask for help. I really miss those days at Taft. School was always fun with you as a teacher. You made learning fun. I will always remember you my dear Mrs. Forrest……Your Student, Cristina Nguyen class of 1979