Linda Gray Forward

Linda Gray Forward January 17, 1946 - May 3, 2023 Linda Gray Forward was born January 17th at her grandparent’s home in Greene County, Alabama to the late Marvin Joel Gray and the late Martha Billings Gray. She had one older brother, Joel. She grew up in Chatom, Alabama where she attended Washington Co. High School and excelled in academics and school leadership. Upon graduation in 1965, she attended the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama earning her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology in 1968. She continued her education and attained a Master’s degree in Social Work from UA in 1971. It was at “The University” that she met fellow social work student, Gordon Forward of East Aurora, NY and the two were later married in 1971. Linda soon became the proud mother of three girls: Amanda, Jenny, and Elizabeth. Linda’s life can, in part, be defined by her love and compassion for others- teaching her children to love and respect all people. Professionally, she worked with individuals with and families of those with mental illness as a Psychiatric Social Worker. Throughout her career she was employed in various Social Work positions at Bryce Hospital, Searcy Hospital, Partlow, Region II Community Services and Department of Mental Health Central Offices. Personally, Linda enjoyed fall football, supporting her Alma Mater, the University of Alabama, and could be found many a Saturday watching SEC football all day. She was a talented crafts person, sewing clothes, dolls, and doll clothes for her children and others. She especially enjoyed spending time searching for and collecting depression glass that reminded her so much of her childhood and family. It was Linda’s family that brought her the most joy. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Gordon Forward, and children Martha Amanda Haasken and her husband, Tim; Jennifer Middleton and her husband, Donovan; and Elizabeth Reynolds and her husband Troy. Linda was beloved “Grammy” to Sasha Haasken; Jack, Tobi, and Connor Merkl; and Emily and Libby Pearson. She is also survived by her brother, Joel Gray and his wife Leora, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Linda Gray Forward touched so many lives throughout her life. Let us remember her lovingly and fondly as we reflect upon a life well-lived.

Linda Gray Forward

January 17, 1947 - May 3, 2023