William "Billy" Thomas Forbes, 73, passed away Saturday, April 22, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert "Billy" and Catherine Forbes and his brother-in-law, Lenny Messick.

Billy was a lifelong resident of the Fox Hill section of Hampton and a dedicated member of Hampton Baptist Church where he was a deacon and served on numerous committees. He graduated from Virginia Tech with an engineering degree and worked over 40 years in both the private and public sector, the last 22 years with Newport News Waterworks until his retirement in 2009. Billy was a devoted husband, father, brother, son, and grandpa. A perfect day for Billy would have included spending time with his family, fishing, tinkering in the garage and tending the garden. He is survived by his wife of almost 47 years, Nancy Brown Forbes; daughter, Susan Forbes Kniffen of Colorado Springs, CO; son, Carlton T. Forbes and wife, Kim of Chesapeake; sisters, Sharon Forbes Diggs and husband, Roland, and Catherine Forbes Messick; brother, J Edward Forbes and wife, Beverly all of Hampton; grandchildren, McKenzie Kniffen, Carson Forbes and Harrison Forbes. The family is most appreciative to Virginia Oncology for their support through our journey. A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Hampton Baptist Church by Reverends Dr. Chester Brown and Dr. Jay Russ. A committal service will be held, at 10:00 AM Wednesday at Clark Cemetery for those who wish to attend.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Building Fund at Hampton Baptist Church, 40 Kings Way, Hampton, VA 23669 or the Clark Cemetery Association, c/o Mary Rouseau, 6 Riding Path, Hampton, VA 23669 Arrangements are by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home in downtown Hampton, 757-723-3191.