Vivian (Bennett) Forrest, 74, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, March 5.
She was born in Buffington Township, Penn., the daughter of Harry and Mildred (Empfield) Bennett. Forrest is survived by two sisters Verla Anderson and Mildred Forrest and two brothers Alex and Harry Bennett. She was predeceased by two brothers Robert and Elmer Bennett and a sister Jean McCormick.
She was the loving and devoted wife of George Forrest for 54 years. Her surviving family members include her son, George (Chip) Forrest and his fiancee, Malisa Yakes, and her daughter, Nadine Slavin and husband Andy.
Forrest was a longtime resident of Malden before moving to Haverhill. She worked at Boston Gas for many years. She spent countless occasions with her husband and their dear friends laughing, singing and dancing. During her later years, Forrest had a passion for her grandchildren, Tyler and Carlye Slavin, Meg, Emily, Jack, Jake and Emma Forrest: They were truly the light of her life.
Forrest and her husband, George, had a very special relationship. It was something to be modeled for years to come. Her courageous battle with cancer will be one remembered. People like her drive motivation to find a cure for such a terrible disease. She will be forever missed and never forgotten.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, March 8, in the Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 S. Main St., Haverhill from 4 to 8 p.m. Services will begin Friday in the funeral home at 9 a.m. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Sacred Hearts Church, 165 S. Main St., Bradford at 10 a.m. Burial in Harmony Cemetery, Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Forrest’s memory may be made to Sacred Hearts Food Pantry, c/o 48 S. Chestnut St., Bradford, MA 01835.