Trenton Community Honors Shirley Forinash’s Legacy

Community members gathered for a memorial service honoring Shirley Forinash.

News Summary

The Trenton community gathers to celebrate the life of Shirley Joanne (Evans) Forinash, who passed away at 86. A devoted family member and a strong community pillar, her legacy of resilience and service continues to inspire all who knew her.

Trenton Community Celebrates the Life of Shirley Joanne (Evans) Forinash

The close-knit community of Trenton is coming together this month to remember a beloved local figure, Shirley Joanne (Evans) Forinash, who passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 86. Her life was a tapestry of resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.

A Strong Foundation

Born on August 4, 1938, in New Zion, South Carolina, Joanne was the sixth of nine children raised on a sprawling 40-acre cotton and tobacco farm. The lessons learned on that farm instilled in her a robust work ethic. From a young age, she demonstrated her family’s dedication by becoming a remarkably fast cotton picker and taking part in the laborious tasks of planting and curing tobacco—though she was never tempted to smoke.

Early Dreams and Achievements

Throughout her childhood, Joanne was deeply involved in her local 4-H Club. Not only did she learn valuable skills in sewing and cooking, but she also showcased her culinary talent by winning the title of South Carolina state cherry pie baking champion. She began cooking for her family on a wood stove at just 10 years old, a testament to her early independence and love for her family.

A Life of Love and Commitment

After graduating with honors from East Clarendon County High School in 1956, Joanne took on several clerk roles before moving to Sumter, South Carolina, later that year. It was there she began her career as a bookkeeper, eventually meeting her husband in January 1957. In a whirlwind romance, the couple got engaged on Joanne’s birthday and were married on November 23, 1957.

Joanne’s family life was vibrant and filled with moving experiences. As a military spouse, she and her husband welcomed three children—Terry, Brenda, and Glenn—and lived in various locations due to his military assignments, including San Antonio, Texas, and Plattsburgh AFB, New York. During the Vietnam War, she bravely managed the household alone for a year while her husband was deployed, demonstrating her incredible strength and resilience.

Global Adventures and Personal Triumphs

Joanne’s adventures included living in different states and even abroad, including a memorable period in Wiesbaden, Germany. While there, she took on the role of a Cub Scout Leader Trainer and was honored with the prestigious Silver Fawn award. Her passion for walking led her to become deeply involved in volksmarching, completing sanctioned walks not only in Germany but also in all 50 states.

A Heart for Service

After her husband’s retirement from the U.S. Air Force, Joanne re-entered the workforce, further showcasing her strong work ethic by becoming a professional bookkeeper/accountant. Over her impressive three-decade career, she worked for a variety of small businesses as well as one of the largest accounting firms in San Antonio. Her commitment to the community was evident as she took on notable roles, becoming a Financial Manager for the American Volkssport Association.

Legacy of Love

In 1986, Joanne and her husband designed their dream home in San Antonio, where they settled down for the remainder of their lives. Known for her graciousness and hospitality, Joanne prioritized serving others throughout her life. She is survived by her loving husband, Carlen, three children, ten grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy rich in love and service.

Final Arrangements

In lieu of flowers, the family has made a heartfelt request for donations to be made in Joanne’s name to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. A memorial service will take place on April 22, 2025, from 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M., followed by interment at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. As the community gathers to celebrate Joanne’s life, it’s clear that her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the fortune of knowing her.