After a life well lived, James B. Forsythe Jr., 85, went to live with his Lord forever Saturday, January 4, 2025, two days before his 86th birthday. He finished his course, but lost his battle with lung problems.
He was a retired coal miner. He never complained and continued to drive up until three weeks before his passing.
He was an ordained minister. He loved his Lord, his family and his 1993 Chevy truck. He loved to work when he could. He said he didn’t want anyone to think he was a “couch potato.”He fixed lawnmowers free-of-charge for over 50 years, made country crafts that people loved, and relentlessly waved to everyone driving past 3431 Fairmont Road. He was a good Christian man, who was respected and admired. He will be missed by many. He left his mark on the world.
James was born January 6, 1939, in Fayette County, Pa., and came to West Virginia at a young age and lived here the rest of his life. His parents were the late Ellen Huskin Forsythe and James Forsythe, Sr.
He was preceded in death by nearly all of his immediate family: four adult sisters, Eileen, Luvina, Nancy and Dorothy; an infant brother and infant sister; all of his grandparents; and almost all of his nieces and nephews.
He is survived by his wife of over 67 years, Selvia Jean Beckman Forsythe; one son, James B. Forsythe III (Dawn); one granddaughter, Chanda Forsythe; one grandson, James “Jay” B. Forsythe IV (Jessica); two great-grandsons, Beckman and Cole Domansky; two great- granddaughters, Oaklyn and Finley Forsythe; a new baby boy who will be joining the family in June; two stepgrandsons, Erik and Jeremy Hartley. He is also survived by one sister, Ellen (Bootsie) Heinze and her son, Taylor; and one niece, Robin.
McCulla Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. He is being cremated and there will be no services.
If you would like to give a donation in James’ name, please send to: Union Rescue Mission, 107 Jefferson Street, Fairmont, WV 26554.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.McCulla.com
