MADISON - Jenell Forbes, age 63, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025. She was born on August 3, 1961, in Elizabeth City, N.C., the daughter of Henry and Grace (Smithson) Forbes.

Jenell graduated from La Follette High School, where she met her life partner, Terry Lunde. She was supported by Goodwill Industries, while working at several jobs. She had long-term positions at the UW Hygiene Lab and Meriter Hospital Pharmacy, her most recent position was with Tru Hotel. Jenell was very proud of being a hard worker.

She received residential support from Options in Community Living, where she had many friends. Jenell also participated in several groups such as Options UNO group, Very Special Arts Choir and Special Olympics. Jenell loved all holidays and would frequently dress up, she especially liked to play ”April Fools” jokes. She also loved to attend and throw parties with her friends.

Jenell had a fiery spirit and an imaginative sense of humor. She was empathetic and would share her thoughts and prayers through handmade cards. Jenell loved collecting things and loved music especially, Elvis. She was a cat lover and had several loyal felines in her lifetime. Jenell had a knack for making people feel special and was genuinely interested in their lives. She showed the people around her that she valued them with praise and stickers. Jenell also valued her time with her family, particularly sharing meals with her Aunt Ann and surrounding family at holidays.

Jenell is survived by her sisters, Shirley (Neil) Glover and Peggy Tesch; aunt and uncle, Ann and Wealey Smithson; and several beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Henry Devotion Forbes Jr.; sister, Barbara Forbes Curry; her grandmother Ellen; and her adored lifelong partner, Terry Lunde.

She will be deeply missed by many friends and caregivers.

A memorial gathering will be held at the WARNER PARK COMMUNITY CENTER, 1625 Northport Drive, Madison, from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025

Memorials may be made to Options in Community Living or Goodwill Industries.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Jenell Forbes

August 03, 1961 - January 19, 2025

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