In Loving Memory of Starr Laverne Forbes

July 19, 1953 – April 29, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Starr Laverne Forbes, age 71, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who departed this life on April 29, 2025.

Born on Sunday, July 19, 1953, in Philadelphia, Starr was the beloved daughter of the late Robert and Juanita Sutton. She was the fourth of eight siblings and a cherished member of a close-knit and loving family.

A proud graduate of Overbrook High School, Class of 1971, Starr pursued her passion for caring for others by studying nursing at Hahnemann Medical School. Her life was defined by compassion, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved. Whether through her professional work or personal life, Starr made it her mission to uplift and care for others.

Starr’s life journey led her to St. Louis, Missouri, where she met and married Robert Saddler, with whom she shared the joy of raising their son, Caleb. After their separation, Starr returned to Philadelphia, where she later found love again and married Joseph Forbes in October of 1993. Their union endured 22 devoted years until his passing.

For over two decades, Starr served with dedication as a healthcare administrator, retiring in 2009. Even in retirement, her nurturing spirit remained evident. She found joy in simple yet meaningful pleasures, spending time with family and friends, sharing long conversations over the phone, baking with love, and cooking meals that brought people together.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Starr gave her life to Christ at a young age and was active in ministry throughout her life. Most recently, she was a devoted member of Bethel Deliverance Church in Wyncote, Pennsylvania . During her time living in South Carolina, she was a member and minister-in-training at Mt. Hill Church, continuing her spiritual service and dedication to God.

Starr was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Forbes; her parents, Robert and Juanita Sutton; and her brothers Robert Sutton, Everett Sutton, Dennis Sutton, and Alfred Adams.

She leaves behind her treasured son Caleb Saddler and daughter-in-law Paris Florence-Saddler; her loving sisters Carol Dews (Robert), Bellice Evans, Denise Presley, and Vannessa Scafe. Starr’s legacy will live on through her many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and a circle of lifelong friends, including Marilyn Rigmaiden-DeLeon, Ethel Taylor, Viola Royster, and Sandy Williams, with whom she shared over 50 years of unwavering friendship.

Her warmth, wisdom, and strength will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to know her. Her memory will forever remain a blessing.