Robert Clinton Forbes

Robert Clinton Forbes, age 99 of Purcellville, Virginia died 12 July, 2025 at his home that he and his wife built in 1960. Mr. Forbes was born in Dundas, Virginia to the Reverend Walter G. Forbes and Hattie W. Forbes.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the U.S.S. Omaha and following his discharge in 1946, entered Lynchburg College, where he received his BA degree in 1950.

He met and married his wife of 73 years, Nina Harris of Lynchburg. They moved with their two sons to Leesburg, Virginia in 1955 where Mr. Forbes worked with the State Health Department until Leesburg’s first Town Manager, Robert Sharp, hired him as Director of Planning & Zoning in 1962. Leesburg’s population at the time was less than 3,000 persons and Leesburg was one of only three towns in the State to have Planning Directors. Mr. Forbes retired in 1984, having served 22 years as Director.

He was active in community affairs when he was young. He served as State Director of The Junior Chamber of Commerce. In the Lions Club, he held the offices of: Treasurer, President, and Zone Chairman. He was a Charter Member and Deacon of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church and was a Mason for over 70 years. He was also an avid golfer and member of Loudoun Golf and Country Club for many years.

Mr. Forbes is survived by his wife Nina Harris Forbes, his son Richard W. Forbes and Richard’s wife, Margaret Ann Weaver Forbes. He is also survived by nieces, Cynthia Stevenson Flynn (Rick), Susan Stevenson Greene (Bobby) and several cousins of the Harris & Forbes Clan.

A son, Walter G. (Greg) Forbes preceded him in death, as well as his sister, Emma Ruth Forbes Stevenson (Bob).

A graveside service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Greenwood Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post # 16.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.