Reba Forrest Hobson

Reba C. Forrest Hobson, 94 of Jonesboro, quietly left this life on the morning of October 8, 2020, surrounded by her children.

Reba Lee was born to Alvin and Lorene Chester in Benton County, Tennessee, on January 10 ^th , 1926. The family moved to Gibson, Tennessee when she was a small child.  She remained there until she graduated from Gibson High School where she loved playing basketball. She attended Memphis State University and was a graduate of the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. She enjoyed her medical career working in several areas of nursing. She retired from the State of Arkansas after working as an administrator for the Brad Walker Rehabilitation Center. In her second career, she owned and managed Forrest Office Machines after the death of her husband, James W. Forrest. She was a long time member of First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed needlework, cooking great family meals and traveling.

Reba was preceded in death by her two husbands, James W. Forrest and Wallace B. Hobson. She was also preceded in death by her brothers James Chester, Hillman Chester and a sister, Barbara Reeves. She is survived by her youngest sister Janice Sue Adams and her husband, James Earl Adams.

She was the mother of four children; Billy Forrest, Bobby Forrest, Brenda Forrest Million (Mark) and Barry Forrest (Dana). She also leaves behind 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Her grandchildren are Will Forrest (Maria), Lauren Johnson (Blake), Jonathan Million (Megan), Courtney Noel (Charlie), Brandon Buhrmester (Holly), Cody Forrest, Ashley Forrest Cheney (Dale) and Jeremy Glenn. She also leaves behind her wonderful caregivers, Lisa Forrest, Shirley Partain, Rita Tindle, Patti Wickland and Grace Ogles.

Reba was fortunate to have a second family with Wallace Hobson.  His 3 grown children; Ben, Libby, Frances and their families were an added blessing in her life.

She was a beloved mother, grandmother and friend to many. Most of all she was so loved by her family and caregivers. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Due to COVID, there will only be a private family graveside service with Emerson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the St. Bernards Foundation, 400 East Street, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401; First United Methodist Church, 801 S. Main, Jonesboro, Arkansas, 72401; or St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 38105.