302 S. Walnut Street Sherman, TX 75090 | Map It | 903.893.1171

Obituaries

Leo James Forde

08/14/1956 - 03/24/2021

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Obituary For Leo James Forde

After a hard-fought battle, Leo James Forde Jr. of Sherman, TX passed away at his home on March 24, 2021 at the age of 64.

“Jimmy” was born on August 14, 1956 in Denton, TX to L.J. and Pauline Brennan Forde. In 4th grade, the family relocated to Sherman, TX where he graduated high school in 1974. Then in 1976 he earned an Associate’s Degree in Business from Grayson County College.

Jimmy married Sarah Coker in 1976 and they had two children, Ashley and J. Together they assumed ownership of Twin Cities Bowling Lanes & Keglers. In 1985, they built their new location on Hwy 1417. And later opened Keglers Sports and Comedy Club. In recent years, he enjoyed working and hosting fundraisers at the VFW in Sherman.

Affectionately known as the “anchorman” Jimmy bowled many perfect games and was proud of his induction into the Bowling Hall of Fame. Those that knew him, knew he could light up a room unless he left a 7-10 split or a 10 pin!

Jimmy is survived by his daughter Ashley Rice and husband Corey, son J. Forde, grandchildren Brennan Ponder and Leo Forde, sisters Paddy Guyton and Lynne Breyer and husband Richard, brother-in-law Archie Van Well, the mother of his children Sarah Coker Bates and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, sister Bette Van Well, Brother-in-law Merle Guyton and nephew Mark Pritchard.

A Celebration of life will be held on Monday, March 29, 2021at 6:00 PM at Dannel Funeral Home. The family will greet friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Dannel Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Kevin O'Brien of Heritage Nazarene Church will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to VFW.org, Cancer.org or charity of choice.

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Condolences

  • 03/29/2021

    Kevin Roberts

    With deepest sympathy to Jimmy's family. Jimmy was a long time friend from high school. Kevin & Kathy Roberts

  • 03/29/2021

    Shelly

    All my love to Ashley, J. and Sara. Everyone is in my thoughts. Shelly Deaton

  • 03/26/2021

    David Kennedy

    I am sure sorry to hear this. I remember Jimmy from early on as our parents owned the bowling alley together. He was always much better than me, and had the most unique side-arm delivery with a lot of force. He was one intense competitor! Jimmy was a good guy. Family and friends are in my prayers. RIP my friend.

  • 03/26/2021

    PaddyGuyton

  • 03/26/2021

    paddy guyton

  • 03/26/2021

    Paddy Guyton

    You will be missed baby Brother. Your suffering is over & you are reunited in heaven with you Mom & Dad & Sister Bette. We will forever be greatful for having you in our lives. I love you Your sister Paddy.❤️

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