Forrest Garling, Jr.

Forrest Garling, Jr. met his Lord on November 13, 2025, at Valley Baptist Medical Center. The son of the late Forrest Garling, Sr and Grace Wheeler Garling, Forrest was born on November 2, 1942, in San Antonio, Texas.

Forrest was a 1961 graduate of Harlingen High School and later graduated from the University of Texas. Forrest is a veteran having served in the United States Air Force where he enjoyed being stationed abroad, including a stint in Spain.

After his service to his country, Forrest returned to Texas, living in Houston for more than three decades. While in Houston he owned Forrest Garling Interiors, a successful interior design business and later followed a passion by opening an antique consignment business, Consignments Garling.

Upon retirement, Forrest came home to Harlingen in 2001. Forrest became a vital part of the Rio Grande Valley Museum where he curated and managed the gift shop. Working at the museum offered Forrest daily enjoyment by interacting with the visitors and staff of the Museum.

Forrest found some of his most meaningful community as an active and beloved member of St. Albans Episcopal Church where he proudly served on the altar guild. Before morning worship service, he could often be found enjoying a cup of coffee, a sweet snack, and conversation with members. He made it a practice to welcome visitors with a kind word and a smile.

Forrest is survived by his sister, Sherry Smith (Cheri) of El Paso, nephew, Paul Irby (Laurie), great niece Ashton and great nephew Seth, all of Abilene. Forrest was predeceased by his parents as well as nephew, David Irby.

A memorial service for Forrest will be at St. Alban's Episcopal Church, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 2:00 PM.

Memorials should be directed to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 1417 East Austin, Harlingen, Texas 78550.