
Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William “Billy” Bernard Forshee, Jr., age 69, who departed this life peacefully on April 25, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1955, Billy lived a life marked by kindness, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He retired from Southeast Toyota in 2020, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. His quiet strength, thoughtful wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather (Pop), and brother, Billy is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Colleen; his children, Colby (Heather), Brandon (Kristin) and Bethany (Mark); and his cherished grandchildren, Brennan, Jace, Annilyn, Avery, Ryles, Palmer, Rhett, Emma (Bailey), Austin (Bailey), and great-grandchildren Olive and Ember who brought him endless laughter and joy, as well as his sister Lynn Basham. He was preceded in death by his parents, William B. Forshee, Sr., and Barbara A. Forshee.
Billy found joy in the simple pleasures of life: fishing, hunting, traveling, and spending time with family and friends at his home on Black Hammock Island. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his sense of humor, and the quiet way he made the world a better place.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 5th at 11 AM, at Celebration Church of Jacksonville: 9555 RG Skinner Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256. The family kindly asks those attending the service to wear casual, brightly colored attire in honor of Billy’s deep love for the island life.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever in our hearts.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cedar Bay Funeral Home
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Bernard Forshee Jr., please visit our floral store.