In the jubilee year of hope, Ione Ann Forbes entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 76 years old.
Born in Parsons on March 26, 1949, Ione was the daughter of Eugene and Ione Forbes. She graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in 1967.
Throughout her life, Ione lived in Chesapeake, Virginia, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, before retiring to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, in 2003, with her dear friend, Val Almon. There, they built a peaceful and serene life, surrounded by nature and community.
Ione is survived by her grandson, Joshua Forbes; his wife, Samantha; and her great-granddaughter, Kara Marie, all of Battlefield, Missouri. She is also survived by her siblings, Tom and Loretta Forbes of Parsons, Ken and Mary Cook of Wichita, Jim and Carol Forbes, Joe and Tommie Forbes and Paul Forbes, all of Parsons; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Eugene Charles Forbes; her beloved daughter, Shauna Ann Forbes; and her eldest nephew, Thomas Steven Forbes.
Ione loved with all her heart to a fault. She will be remembered for her faith, her unwavering spirit and the joy she brought to others. Her determination to make the best of things, her childlike wonder and her contagious laughter reminded all who knew her that joy is both real and a choice. Ione was the embodiment of love and hope.
In accordance with Ione’s wishes, a private family graveside service was on July 9 at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Parsons.
Leave online condolences at www.forbeshoffman.com.
