Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mr. Forrest La Dean “Foxx” McFarland

07/28/1954 - 02/24/2023

Text:

Obituary For Mr. Forrest La Dean “Foxx” McFarland

Mr. Forrest La Dean “Foxx” McFarland, 68, departed this life February 24, 2023, after what some have described as a short illness, but those close to Forrest knew that he was silently suffering for a long time.

Forrest was born July 28, 1954 in Summerlee, WV to John D. and Beulah Clintella McFarland in the family home.

Forrest graduated from Collins High School in 1973. Forrest enlisted in the United States Army in 1974 and after the completion of Advanced Individual Training, he was assigned to duty in Germany. At the end of his active-duty assignment Forrest returned to WV and entered the National Guard, where he served in various deployments; Bosnia in 1999, Saudi Arabia in 1991 and Honduras. Forrest obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) and retired with the combined active and guard time of twenty years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, John W, Isaac and William; and sisters, Joyce, Jerlena and Rhonda.

Forrest leaves to celebrate his life, his sisters, Mary Howard and Kathy (Al) Chatfield, both of Cincinnati, OH and Myra (Ronnie) Stevens of Summerlee, WV; brothers, Terry (Erna) McFarland Sr, of Havrede Grace, MD and Kenneth (Natalie) McFarland Sr. of Madison AL.

Forrest did not have any children, but he was the gentle giant and father figure for a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral service will be 1:00PM Thursday, March 2, 2023 at the First Baptist Church of Summerlee 325 Allman St. with Revs. Charles Smith Jr. and Richard Stevens officiating. Burial will follow in Gethsemane Memorial Gardens, Oak Hill.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may view and visit with the family one-hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Oak Hill High School/CHS Alumni Association PO Box 462, Oak Hill, WV 25901

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

03/21/2023

Danielle McFarland

Uncle Foxx, you will be deeply missed. 💜 🕯
03/02/2023

Duane Arrington

I met Forrest in the 70s and there's not a finer man , he will be sadly missed ! I had the pleasure of seeing him twice a week at the VA for the past 6 years ! Fox you are now in a better place . Duane Arrington
03/02/2023

Angel Lawson
03/01/2023

Eartha Bradford

To The Family of Forrest McFarland: You have our deepest sympathy. We are praying for your family. Continue to Lean and Depend on Jesus. First Missionary Baptist Church Glen Jean. Pastor, Eugene Nabors Clerk, Eartha Bradford
03/01/2023

Garrison Thomas & Family

Garrison Thomas, childhood friend, It has been a long journey and we were always friendly. Praying to see you again in glory.
03/01/2023

Matt Bowyer

Fox was one of my best friends since I was still in middle school. There are countless memories I have of Fox, Walt, Pimp, George Hawkins, Roland Browder, Skeester, etc.... And those are just the ones that have passed. Bo and Ann's was our meeting place most every day and the close knit friendship of the group (the office crew) , little did I know then, changed my life for ever and to this day I am appreciative to have been a part of their lives. Fox will be missed.
03/01/2023

Patricia Walker (Patsy)

RIP cuz, I will miss your smile, your laughter, your jokes and your good heart and love you showed to everyone, I will miss seeing you walk up the hill on your walker to sit on the porch and talk about old times with my mom. You are loved by so many and you will never ever be forgotten you will always be in our hearts ❤️ To Myra and and all the family I pray that God will wrap His loving arms around each of you and give you peace, comfort and strength today and in the days to come. RIH Fox.
02/28/2023

Lynette Hinton
02/28/2023

SHIRLEY Ann Coleman

RIH My Friend your heart touch so many. You will truly be missed your warm smile and the love you shared with so many. To Myra and the Family may God comfort each of you in the loss of Fox (Big Head). Love You and the best card partner there was (smile). RIP Love You Shirley @ Calhoun Family
02/27/2023

Vanessia Lynch

I will always remember your hug and smile. Please rest in peace.
02/27/2023

Maryam Muhammad

RIP Cousin Forrest. You were loved much.
02/27/2023

Larry Hoskins

The joy you brought to Adult Day Care will definitely be missed. Larry Hoskins
02/26/2023

Bobby Atha

RIP Fox , you'll be missed... you was always such a good neighbor. Donna n Bobby