Dr. Rhea Ellen Forum (born Stone), age 83, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, in Eugene, Oregon. Born on November 23, 1942, in Miami, Arizona, Rhea lived a life filled with love, learning, and devotion to her family and faith.

Rhea graduated from North Phoenix High School in 1959 and pursued higher education with passion and determination. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University before continuing her academic journey at the University of Oregon, where she received a Master’s in Education. She furthered her studies with a Master’s in Christian Family Counseling from Bushnell University (formerly Northwest Christian) and ultimately achieved her PhD in Education.

Rhea began her teaching career in Phoenix, Arizona, before spending three years teaching in Southern California. She then settled in Eugene, Oregon, where she completed her career as an elementary school teacher. A passionate advocate for nurturing young minds, Rhea especially cherished the opportunity to teach the Talented and Gifted program. Her enthusiasm for education left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues alike.

Faith was central to Rhea’s life. Raised as a Christian at North Congregational Church in Phoenix, she later married the love of her life, Donald E. Forum Sr, in the same church. Throughout her life, she remained deeply committed to her faith, attending Worldwide Church of God and the Church of Christ in Florence, Oregon. Her spiritual foundation guided her actions and relationships, reflecting her unwavering belief in kindness and service.

Rhea shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with Donald before his passing. Together, they built a life rich with love and family traditions. She is survived by three stepchildren: sons Donald Forum Jr. and John Forum, and daughter Jan Acorn; two sisters Jeanne Olson and Alice Rotchtstein; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald E. Forum Sr., brother Joel Stone Jr., and parents Eleanor and Joel Fay Stone.

A lifelong learner with an insatiable curiosity, Rhea had a deep love for reading and studying the Bible. Her family fondly remembers her as the family photographer who created cherished photo albums for everyone to treasure. She was also known for her culinary talents—her homemade cinnamon rolls were legendary among family gatherings—and she delighted in preparing sweet tea for Don after getting married.

Rhea’s hobbies reflected her vibrant personality and creative spirit. She enjoyed playing the piano, ukulele, and accordion, singing in choirs, and attending musicals and plays. Volunteering was another passion of hers; after retiring from teaching, she dedicated time to serving at an elementary school, church, and hospital in Florence.

Family was at the heart of Rhea’s life. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, or new births. Christmas was particularly special to her—she took great joy in wrapping presents for the entire family with care and creativity. Rhea’s warmth, generosity, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew her and her gift for listening deeply and being fully present made everyone around her feel valued and loved. Her memory will be cherished by those whose lives she touched through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

May Rhea Ellen Forum’s legacy of love and learning continue to inspire those who knew her best. A Memorial Service will be held on March 23, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Central Lutheran Church, 1857 Potter Street, Eugene. Viewing available at ll:00 am. Celebration of Life reception will follow the memorial service.