July 13, 2025, 64, Goldsboro —

Barbara Parker Forbes, 64, of Raeford passed on to be with her Lord Sunday, July 13, 2025 with her loved ones by her side.

Barbara was born in Whiteville, NC on September 2, 1960 and was a graduate of Acme Delco High School.  She received her Secretary Degree from Southeastern Community College and then continued to attend Fayetteville Technical Community College where she earned her degree in funeral service and became license with the North Carolina Board of Funeral Service.  From this achievement in life, Barbara became a proud owner of Highland Funeral Service and Crematory in Fayetteville, NC where she provided care to families throughout Cumberland County for over 25 years.  Barbara always believed in furthering her education where she continued to attended Methodist University to receive several more Bachelor’s and Business Degrees before later completing her education at Campbell University to earn her Master’s Degree. 

Spending time outdoors, Barbara enjoyed fishing on the pier at the coast or simply fishing by the river.  She served as past pianist and organist at Bolton Baptist Church and most recently worshipped with her husband, Keith at Freedom Biker Church in Fayetteville. She will be missed by all who knew her.

She leaves to cherish her memories her husband, Keith Forbes; her mother, Patsy Shepherd Parker of Lake Waccamaw and her niece, Jennifer Parker.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father, James M. “Polly” Parker Sr. who helped organize the Bolton Fire Department; her brother, James M. “Buddy” Parker Jr. and her nephew, Michael James Parker.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. 

Services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.