“Two dancing shoes and my friends with me.” — Griz
The World lost Grayson Forrest on the morning of Sept. 9, 2023.
A son, big brother and best friend to many, Grayson will be remembered for his infectious smile, kind spirit and love for his family and friends.
Most know him from his time in Ridgway, Colorado (at school) but Grayson lived a life on the move, calling home Fort Worth, Telluride, Crested Butte, Fort Collins and most recently Montrose.
Grayson was a foodie — he LOVED to cook. A musician — he refreshed his soul making and seeing live music. An artist — he was working on completing his tattoo sleeve. He played soccer and loved to rock climb. But most of all — the thing that truly filled his cup — was skipping out on work with his dad and going snowmobiling: “We had this super challenging day in the deep snow but I won’t ever forget all the laughs and smiles. A true bluebird day at Barlow Creek.”
Grayson truly shined when he helped others. He once visited the small Guatemalan jungle village of Santa Maria Tzeja with his grandpa’s volunteer group, where they worked on community development and education. He visited the local elementary school and although he didn’t speak Spanish he became a legend with the kids. They would gather around him, mesmerized by this good-looking, friendly guy from the USA.
As with all too many young, bright souls, Grayson suffered with depression. It’s hard for us to understand the brain’s capacity to believe the pain isn’t temporary, that those around us are better off without us in their world, or the litany of other reasons that push people to the end (132 per day), but if you’re reading this and are one of the 20% of people who suffer from depression, remember … you are NEEDED, you are LOVED, and this feeling will pass. For those who need immediate help, call 988. For those who want to learn more or how to help more, visit www.afsp.org.
Grayson is remembered by his mother Sara, father Jess, stepmom Jessica, brother Kaden, sister Sophia, grandparents Clive, Pamela, Dwight and Patricia, his aunts, uncles, cousins and a world of friends whose hearts he touched. He will be forever missed.
A memorial service will be held in Grayson’s honor this Saturday, Sept. 16 from 5:30-9 p.m. at 745 S. Amelia St. in Ridgway.
