Phyllis Forbes

FORBES- Phyllis Forbes, 95, a resident of Rio Rancho, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 9, 2011 surrounded by her adoring family. Phyllis was born in New York City, NY on June 6, 1916, the daughter of John and Lena Schiffer. A lifelong entrepreneur, she moved to Rio Rancho in the early 70s to pursue real estate ventures. She carried her passion for activism and volunteering with her out West, supporting numerous political campaigns and women’s rights causes and serving as a docent at the NM Museum of Natural History as long as her health permitted. She was an avid traveler, seeker of new experiences, a masterful storyteller and archivist of family trivia and anecdotes. Amongst countless traits, she will be remembered for her infectious optimism, for her endearing sweet tooth and -- most of all, as the beloved matriarch who brought family and friends together. Up until her last days, her humor and wit never failed her - she always knew how to charm a stranger or make light of a somber moment with a ready one-liner. She will be sorely missed by her loved ones and friends. Phyllis is survived by her daughter, Judith; son, Joel; grandchildren, Shontell, Graham, Lindsey and Courtney; great-grandson, Maxx. A Graveside Service was held at 3:00pm Sunday July 10, 2011 at Vista Verde Memorial Park in Rio Rancho. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations in her honor to Hadassah at www.hadassah.org or the New Mexico Museum of Natural History at www.nmnaturalhistory.org. Phyllis’s care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services Sara Road Chapel 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124 505-892-9920