CARC Mourns the Loss of Co-Founder Bob Forrest

CARLSBAD, NM, May 22, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ — It is with heavy hearts that CARC shares the passing of co-founder Bob Forrest, who passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, just a little more than a month after the passing of his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Barbara Forrest. Together, Bob and Barbara built a legacy of compassion, opportunity, and service that forever changed the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families throughout southeastern New Mexico.

Bob Forrest was born on June 12, 1935, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to E.N. and Gentry Forrest. A proud graduate of Carlsbad High School, Bob was a standout athlete in football and basketball before continuing his football career at Texas Western College (UTEP) alongside his brother, Dick Forrest. He later married Barbara Perini, the love of his life, and together they built a life centered around family, faith, business, and service to others.

Because of their dedication to their son, Gary Don Forrest, Bob and Barbara recognized the need for educational opportunities and support services for children with developmental disabilities in Carlsbad. In 1973, they founded CARC, creating opportunities where none existed at the time. What began as a small school became an organization dedicated to providing education, vocational training, residential services, and meaningful opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Bob believed deeply in the value and potential of every individual. Under Bob and Barbara’s leadership, CARC emphasized practical life skills, vocational training, and dignity through work and community involvement. Programs that began decades ago, including agricultural and pecan processing opportunities, continue to provide meaningful experiences and employment opportunities for the individuals served by CARC today.

In addition to his work with CARC, Bob was deeply devoted to the Carlsbad community. He served as a director and chairman of the board of Carlsbad National Bank and served four terms as Mayor of Carlsbad. His love for the community could be seen in the many projects he championed throughout the years, including the Cascades project and the Bob Forrest Sports Complex.

“Bob and Barbara Forrest created far more than an organization,” said Tom Hollis, CEO at CARC. “They created a place of hope, opportunity, and belonging for countless individuals and families. Their vision and servant hearts continue to guide our mission every day.”

The impact Bob and Barbara made on CARC and the Carlsbad community will continue for generations to come. Their legacy lives on through the individuals served, the families supported, and the opportunities they created through compassion, determination, and unwavering belief in others.

Through their vision, determination, and love for their community, Bob and Barbara Forrest created opportunities where none existed and built a foundation that continues to change lives today. Their legacy will remain at the heart of CARC for generations to come.

The passing of both Barbara and Bob within weeks of one another marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in CARC’s history, but the legacy they created together will continue to impact lives for generations to come.

Those wishing to honor Bob and Barbara Forrest’s lifelong commitment to individuals with developmental disabilities may continue their legacy through a memorial contribution to CARC, Inc., 902 W. Cherry Lane, Carlsbad, NM 88220, or online at CARC, Inc.

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