Mr. Forrest Givens

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Forrest Gene Givens: Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend of Edmond, Oklahoma on December 12, 2024, at the age of 77. He passed peacefully in his sleep after a service-related illness that he valiantly fought for the past year in Jasper, Georgia.

Born in Akron, Ohio on April 27, 1947, Forrest was known as Butch by his family and close friends. He was preceded by his parents, Walter and Gladys Givens of Lake Wales, Florida and his sister, Barbara Slavens of Uniontown, Ohio. He is survived by two sons Jeff (Brooke) Givens of Knoxville, Tennessee and Walter Givens of Winter Springs, Florida, three grandchildren, Canyon, Willow, and Lydia, sisters Phyllis (Ron) Searle, of Lompoc, California, and Patricia Bennett of Kent, Ohio.

Forrest was a career military veteran achieving the rank of Sergeant Major in the US Army serving for 28 years with two tours in Vietnam as well as being recalled for Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was a parachutist in the 101st Airborne, the 82nd Airborne, as well as the Old Guard. Forrest continued serving his country after retirement in law enforcement with the Sheriff's office, the US Marshals, and finally the Oklahoma Capital as a tourism guide.

Butch had a passion for baseball playing as a young man, Golf, Ohio State football, the Cleveland Browns and Guardians, but his greatest love was for his children, grandchildren, and family. He had an amazing sense of humor and was always quick with a story.

Forrest will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in the coming months. We ask that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Georgia Mountain Hospice and/or Flags of Valor.

We love and miss you.

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