Jamison “Jamie” Forbes, 53, of New Cumberland passed away at home surrounded by family after a battle with cancer on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
A Marine Corps Veteran, he was a graduate of Aquinas Institute, Rochester, NY and Penn State University, Harrisburg Campus where he was recognized by being on the Dean’s List. He worked for the City of Harrisburg, the former New Cumberland Army Depot and until recently worked as an Administrative Officer for the Automotive Liaison branch of the PA Dept. of Public Services.
Jamie played Rugby for several organizations including Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, All Marine Rugby Team, and became a lifelong member of the Harrisburg Rugby Club. He was an active member of East Shore YMCA where he enjoyed the camaraderie of his fellow handball players and mentoring youth through Hope in Handball.
Jamie is survived by Christel Forbes and their son Toby W. Forbes, parents Catherine and James Contreras, and many more loving relatives and friends.
To know Jamie for five minutes felt like you knew him a lifetime. You can’t picture Jamie without his broad smile and infectious laugh. He loved his alone time as much as he loved giving you a hard time.
Some of his favorite quotes such as “You have to be a friend to have a friend”, “Walk in peace, not in anger”, “Don’t burn your small bridges” and the way he always wanted to know “What’s your movie?” shines a small light on his depth of character and genuine compassion for his fellow man. He was caring and loyal to a fault. He had strength and endurance like few you’d ever meet but was much more of gentle giant. He was thankful for his family and friends. Humble. And happy. The world is a greyer place without him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to the HOPE in Handball program, care of the East Shore YMCA, 701 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17101, (717) 232-9622.
