Born on September 25, 1942 in St. Thomas, Barbados
Passed April 11, 2025 in Palm Bay, Florida
Marva M. Forde, 82, of Palm Bay, Florida passed on April 11, 2025 at home. She was born on September 25, 1942 to Joseph St. Clair Nathaniel and Cynthia Armin Forde in St. Thomas, Barbados.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Carol E Herbert.
Survivors include her siblings Jean M. Boyce, Wavney A. Nicholls, Carson S. Forde, Norma A. Forde, Cynthia Y. Forde, Denise E. Armstrong, Sonia Daniel and Maudine Walcott. She is also survived by 9 nieces and 10 nephews and her dog, Buddy.
Marva attended elementary school at Holy Innocents, St. Thomas, Barbados. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree with an additional year of concentration in Psychiatry in London, England where she completed her practicum at Hillingdon Hospital, Claybury Hospital, and Thorpe Coombe.
As a Registered Nurse & Midwife she worked as a staff nurse at Claybury Hospital, London from 1971-1974, as a staff nurse-at Memorial Medical Center, Corpus Christi, Texas from 1974-1978 and as a staff nurse-at Maimonides Medical Center-in July 1978 until her retirement in 2006.
Marva was a member of St. Paul’s Church in the Village of Flatbush in Brooklyn, New York.
Marva’s viewing will be on Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 3 pm until the time of her service at 4 pm at Brownlie Maxwell Funeral Home. The livestream link for her service is: Marva M. Forde Service
Marva Eulogy -
We are all gathered here today, not just in sorrow, but in deep gratitude for the life of Marva Forde. Marva was a remarkable woman who left a lasting impact on those of us fortunate enough to have truly known her.
For over fifteen years, Marva was more than my neighbor. She was a friend, a confidante, as well as a source of warmth and wisdom. Her kindness knew no bounds, her generosity was effortless, and her intelligence shone through in everything she did.
Marva possessed a gift for gardening that was nothing short of mastery. She often credited her mother for this knowledge and passion. Her garden was a reflection of her - a true beauty, who loved people, animals and nature.
Beyond the garden gate, Marva was a woman of conversation and curiosity. I truly enjoyed the hours we spent just talking. We had many thoughtful, engaging discussions—ones that stretched the mind, broadened the heart, and made the world feel a little bigger and brighter. This was much appreciated, especially in these uncertain and trying times,
One small but treasured moment that stands out for me……….
About a year ago, I took Marva to get her very first Chick-fil-A sandwich, and the joy of that simple experience was captured in a cherished photo. It is a reminder that the best moments are often the simplest ones shared with someone special!
Marva will be sorely missed. Her legacy is not just in the flowers she planted or the wisdom she shared, but in the countless lives she touched along the way. Let’s all honor her memory by carrying forward the kindness, inclusivity, and generosity she embodied.
My condolences to all of Marvas family and friends!
Love Anne