RUSSELL/HERMON – Julia M. Forbes, age 94, passed away on March 22, 2026 at the Samaritan Keep Home in Watertown surrounded by loved ones.

There will be a graveside service held in the Hermon Cemetery on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Julia was born on October 15, 1931 in DeGrasse to the late Claude and Louella (Pike) Paro. She graduated from Knox Memorial High School in 1949. Julia married Robert D. Forbes on July 18, 1956 at the Russell Methodist Church. Robert passed away on April 23, 1983.

Julia was a former waitress at the Newton Falls Paper Mill snack bar and then worked with her husband on their dairy farm in Russell. After Mr. Forbes passed away, Julia worked on the Marion Reed farm. Julia lived most of her life in Russell before moving to Hermon after her husband's death. In July 2009 she moved to the Edwards Senior Courts where she enjoyed the company of many friends. Julia loved raising her family and enjoyed her vegetable gardens. She was a member of the Edwards Assembly of God.

She is survived by six children, William "Bill" Forbes, Danny and Kathy Forbes, Timothy and Heather Forbes, Roberta Siliker, and Judy Ann Baiterman, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Julia was predeceased by three children, Randy Paro, Connie Forbes, and Bonnie, and her sister, Louise Blackmer.