Mr. Forrest L. Whittier

Forrest L. Whittier left this world unexpectedly on April 7, 2021 at the age of 66. Born on May 11, 1954 in Charleston, South Carolina to R. Allison Powers Whittier and the late Reverend Arthur Livingston Whittier. He grew up in Columbia with his parents and three siblings. After graduating from Eau Claire High School in 1972, Forrest moved to Lakeland, Florida to attend school at Southeastern Bible College. There he met his wife and best friend, Marilyn. Together, they had three children: Allison, Rebekah, and Daniel. Forrest was a dedicated worker and father who never missed a school concert, baseball game, or church gathering. After his grandchildren were too big to be carried around, you could find him on the couch with one of his granddogs cuddled up beside him (ideally watching The Weather Channel). He also loved a good road trip whether it was across town or across state lines. His sharp ability to remember facts and attention to detail were ideal skills for his career as a bookkeeper and tax preparer, and he most recently worked for Liberty Tax Services. He delighted in going to work and took great pride in his role as a team member. After moving back to Columbia, he also enjoyed reconnecting with his high school friends and making new ones at work and church. Forrest is survived by his mother; children, Allison Hache (Shamil) of Fort Myers, FL, Rebekah Ruiz (Carlos) of Eustis, FL, and Daniel Whittier (Krissy) of Sahuarita, AZ; grandchildren, David Ruiz, Angel Ruiz, Elias Ruiz, Hannah Whittier; and an extended family that includes additional grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; and nephew. He is also survived by his siblings and their families: Dale Whittier of Irmo, SC, Cheryl Sneigon (Bob) of Gilbert, SC, and Merritt Whittier (Lily) of Lexington, SC. Forrest was preceded in death by his father; and Marilyn, whom he missed deeply. A graveside service for Mr. Whittier will be held 10 o’clock, Sunday, April 11, 2021, at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. All are invited to attend; however, masks are required, and social distancing is enforced to maintain a safe environment for all. A livestream may be viewed by visiting Forrest’s tribute page at ShivesFuneralHome.com.

Tributes

Mr. Forrest L. Whittier

May 11, 1954 - April 7, 2021