Bob Forrest

Bob Forrest, 90, of W. Riverside Drive, Carlsbad, NM, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at his home. Visitation will be at 9:00 AM, Monday, May 18, 2026, at First Methodist Church. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 AM, Monday, May 18, 2026, at First Methodist Church with Pastor Kelly McCuaig officiating. Interment will follow in Carlsbad Cemetery, Carlsbad, NM. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Bob was born on June 12, 1935, in Albuquerque to E.N. and Gentry (Hudnall) Forrest. He graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1954, where he excelled as a standout athlete in both football and basketball. After high school, Bob and his brother Dick continued their football careers at Texas Western College (UTEP). He later married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Perini. Bob went on to join the family business at Forrest Tire before expanding into the hotel industry.

Because of Bob and Barbara’s dedication to their son Gary, they founded CARC, Inc. in 1973 and played a key role in its lasting success. In 1976, Bob and Dick purchased the X-Bar Ranch, which remains in the family today and is managed by Mike and Bobby.

Bob also served as a director of Carlsbad National Bank, including many years as chairman of the board. He was elected Mayor of Carlsbad for four terms and was deeply committed to the community. Bob’s love for Carlsbad could be seen in the many projects he supported throughout the years, including his vision for the Cascades project. He absolutely loved Carlsbad.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara Forrest; son, Gary Forrest; daughter-in-law, Brenda Forrest; brothers: Elvin Forrest and Dick Forrest.

Survivors are his sons: Bobby Forrest, Mike Forrest and wife, Jo; grandchildren: Jesse Forrest, Jeff Forrest and wife, Shannon, Michael Forrest and wife, Lindsey, Lee Emerson and husband, Brett, and Ross Forrest and wife, Selden; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Gloria Wilson, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Pallbearers will be Jesse Forrest, Jeff Forrest, Michael Forrest, Brett Emerson, Ross Forrest, Tommy Wilson, Kelly Wilson, and Clay Wilson.

Memorial contributions may be made to CARC, Inc., 902 W. Cherry Lane, Carlsbad, NM 88220