Mr. Roger Dean Forsyth

Roger was born to Amy Luzon and Dean Forsyth and was one of eleven children. Growing up in a big family helped shape the values that guided him throughout his life—faith, hard work and showing up for the people you love.

While serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Roger met the love of his life, Nancy Janssen. They were married on August 22, 1964, and spent nearly 62 years together, sharing life’s adventures.

Roger spent much of his life behind the wheel of a bright red semi-truck. He loved the freedom of the open road, the places it took him and the people he met along the way. The miles were many, and so were the friendships he made.

To his eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, Roger was simply Pawpaw or Poppy—one of his favorite titles and one he wore proudly. Watching his family grow through the generations was one of life’s greatest joys.

Roger was easy to spot and impossible to forget. Maybe it was the ostrich-skin cowboy boots. Maybe it was his love of Westerns. Or maybe it was the smile that usually showed up right before a joke or a little good-natured teasing. He never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel welcome from the moment they met him.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Amy Luzon and Dean Forsyth; his daughter, Amy Benefiel (Frank); and his sister, Renee Forsyth.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Forsyth; his daughter, Jennifer Powell (Scott); his eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren; his brothers and sisters; and many extended family members and friends.

While we will miss hearing his stories and seeing those cowboy boots walk through the door, we find comfort in imagining Roger on his next great adventure—finding a good seat, making new friends and sharing a story or two along the way.

Roger Dean Forsyth lived a life that was well traveled, well lived and well loved.

Those that wish to remember Roger may consider a memorial donation to the Dementia Society of America in support of individuals and families affected by dementia.

Visitation will be held at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133, US, on July 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Elmwood Cemetery, 824 S Dudley St, Memphis, TN 38104, US, on July 20, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.