Forrest Bivens

Born on February 24, 1938, in Mason County, Kentucky, Wayne was raised on his family's tobacco and dairy farm, where he developed a strong work ethic, self-reliance, and appreciation for nature that would guide him throughout his life. Following his early years in Kentucky, he served his country in the United States Air Force.

After his military service, Wayne and Janet were married in Ripley, Ohio in 1958 and then moved to Atlanta, Georgia. They attended Cedar Grove United Methodist Church and Forest Park United Methodist Church. Wayne built a career with S&H Green Stamps and during his time off, he was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, and exploring the natural world. A devoted subscriber and lifelong reader of National Geographic, Wayne had an enduring curiosity about people, places, and cultures. That curiosity translated into a love of travel, and some of his happiest memories were made exploring the world alongside Janet, his beloved wife of 67 years.

Above all else, Wayne treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother whose loyalty and steady presence shaped the lives of those who knew and loved him. Whether tending his garden, climbing a deer stand, doing a word search book, or dinners with family, Wayne found joy in life's simple pleasures.

Wayne is survived by his wife Janet; his sons, Tony (Gery), Mark, and David (Debra); his grandchildren, Ashley (Tad), Abby (Cale), Josh, Mac, Connor, Thomas (Carrington), and Samuel; his great-grandchildren, Lilli and her husband, Justin; Avery and his fiancé, Kayleigh; Mark Henry, Owen, and Blakely; and his siblings, Ginny and Billy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Lena Bivens; his mother- and father-in-law, Juanita and Roscoe Littleton; his daughter-in-law, Linda; and his siblings, Gene, Melba, Barbara, Armilda, and Joyce.

The family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the generations he helped shape and in the hearts of all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association