Bernard Forgue Obituary

We are gathered in loving memory to honor and celebrate the life of Mr. Bernard Joseph Forgue, affectionately known as "Yankee," who left this world on July 1, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on January 14, 1938, Yankee was a beacon of strength and joy to all who knew him. A dedicated husband, father, and friend, his warm presence will be profoundly missed.
Yankee is survived by his cherished wife of 54 years, Patricia Forgue, with whom he built a life rich in love and shared experiences. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including their children Billy Forgue (Jodi Vanscoy) of Covington, Alisha Malcom (Dexter) of Social Circle, Cindy Smith (Greg) of Social Circle, Stephanie Carr (Reed) of Oxford, and Betty Burgess (Billy) of Covington, his children from a previous marriage Cindy Jane McSwain of Lakeland, Florida, Linda Lee Saavedra of Lakeland, Florida, Wendy Ann Madden (Vincent) of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, his dear sister Patty Brooke of Lakeland, Florida, several nieces and nephews. Yankee now joins his son Bernard Dale "Butch" Forgue, his late parents, William and Myrtle Forgue, and his siblings William Frances Forgue, Barbara Ison, Janice Muskteller, Paul Forgue, and brother-in-law Dennis Brooke, in eternal rest.
A proud veteran, Yankee served his country with honor in the United States Army before embarking on a successful entrepreneurial journey as the owner of BJ Enterprises. His work ethic was unparalleled, and he was well-respected in his professional community. Yankee's involvement in associations related to his field reflected his commitment to excellence and his desire to contribute meaningfully to his industry.
A long-time resident of Covington, Yankee's passions were as robust as his dedication to his family. His love for his grandchildren knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent with them. An avid lover of trucks and NASCAR, he found joy in the roar of an engine and the thrill of the race. In his younger years, Yankee's adventurous spirit shone brightly as he dirt track raced, a hobby that reflected his zest for life and his love for a challenge.
Yankee's skills extended to his hands, which were rarely still. He took pleasure in disassembling vehicles, a testament to his curiosity and mechanical ingenuity. With a torch in his hand, he could transform the most stubborn of metals, revealing the beauty of creation and reconstruction.
A Funeral Service for Yankee will be at 2:30PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral Home with Pastor Craig Hudgins officiating. Interment will be at Lawnwood Memorial Park following the service. The family will receive friends for visitation from 1:00PM until 2:30PM at the funeral home prior to the service. J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with these arrangements.
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