It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Walter A. Forde, affectionately known as “Austin,” who was born on August 4, 1958, and departed this life on July 15, 2026. Walter was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, stepfather, and friend whose life touched many people. He will be remembered for the memories he created, the relationships he cherished, and the love he shared with his family and friends. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Walter was preceded in death by his mother, Emanda V. Browne, and his father, Reuben A. Forde.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Thearesa Forde, Jamesha Forde, and Shamara Forde; and his sons, Troy Sr., Garette, Dwayne, Deshawn, Michael, Karsheem, Nazeem, Arnari, Junior, Dequan, and Jumanie. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Troy Jr., Rajani, Nijah, Amelia, Keshawn, Kayden, Jahlequah, Jason, Zahniyah, Madison, Michael, Miley, Mariah, Tyreek, T’Anna, Temora, Temani, Trimoye, Trimonii, Shamal, Shune, Jasmine, Nazea, and Nazair, who will forever cherish the memories of their grandfather.

Walter is also survived by his brothers, Alton, Wayne, Elron, David, Edwin, and Andy; and his sisters, Beverly, Bonnilyn, Sherilyn, Darly, Anya, Violet, Sheron, and Sandra. He leaves to mourn his passing his aunts, Merle and Josephine; his niece, Rickey Cornwell, and Clovis; his great-niece, Tre’Vaughna; his great-nephew, BJ; and his stepchildren, Wayne, Elvis, Raymond, and Tristin. He is also survived by many other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, extended family members, and special friends who were an important part of his life and whose names are too numerous to mention.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Walter A. Forde will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Divine Funeral Services Chapel, located at #129 Peter’s Rest, Christiansted, VI 00820. The viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to gather together to pay their final respects, celebrate Walter’s life, and offer comfort and support to one another during this time of sorrow.

Walter’s journey on earth has come to an end, but the love he shared and the memories he created will live on through his children, grandchildren, family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May he rest peacefully in eternal love, and may his memory forever be a blessing to those who knew and loved him.