It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffory (Jeff) H. Forbes of St. Petersburg,
Florida, a Vietnam veteran, beloved family man, and respected leader in the local banking
community. He passed away peacefully on August 10, 2023, at the age of 75.
Born on November 27, 1947, in Morgantown, West Virginia, to Howard J. Forbes and Mildred R.
Selby Forbes Parker. Jeff served in the Vietnam War. Following his honorable military service,
Jeff continued to excel, graduating with an Accounting degree from the University of South
Florida and becoming a prominent figure in the banking industry. With a brilliant mind for
business and a relentless work ethic, he climbed the ranks to become the CEO of Seminole Bank
and then First Home Bank (now, BayFirst). His visionary leadership, integrity, and dedication to
the welfare of both his employees and clients were unparalleled.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jeff was a devoted family man. He leaves behind a
legacy of love and care, having touched the lives of his children, grandchildren, and extended
family in immeasurable ways. He was a pillar of strength, a source of wisdom, and a model of
integrity for all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In addition to his professional achievements, Jeff was active in the local community. He served
for many years on the Board of Trustees of Catholic Charities, Diocese of St. Petersburg. He was
especially proud of being a part of the San Jose Mission, a residential community in Dover that
provides housing for low income families involved in the agriculture or aquaculture industries.
Jeff will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. His legacy of courage,
leadership, and love will forever be cherished in the hearts of his family, friends, and
colleagues. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, let us remember the impact he made on
our lives and the world around him.
Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 53-years, Sherry B. Forbes, his daughter, Nicole (Nikki)
Forbes Stowell, son-in-law, Shane Stowell, granddaughter, Caroline Amy Stowell, grandson,
Brendan Forbes Stowell, sister, Judy MacKendrick, brother-in-law, Gregg MacKendrick, step-
brother, Jack Parker (Gail), sister-in-law, Sheila M. Graham, and nieces, Lisa Kappel (Jim), and
Laura Foster (Kevin) and nephews, Glenn MacKendrick (Danielle) and Alex Graham. His
daughter, Amy Forbes, passed away in 1997.
A funeral mass to honor the life of Jeff will be held on Friday, August 25 th at 11:30 am at St. Paul
Catholic Church, 1800 12 th Street North, St. Petersburg, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family
kindly asks that you consider making a donation to Catholic Charities, Diocese of St. Petersburg
or a donation to the Jeffory Forbes Memorial Scholarship in Accountancy with a check
made payable to USF Foundation, Inc. and mailed to the Office of Donor Relations, 4202 E.
Fowler Ave, ALC100, Tampa, FL 33620, Attn: Beth Corbin or online at usf.to/ForbesIMO .
Rest in peace, Jeff. Your memory will live on, and your contributions will continue to inspire
generations to come.