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Lesley Corbett Forster, Trustee

Lesley (Judy) Corbett Forster [trustee 1957-73], November 5, 2013, in Portland, from age-related issues. A lifelong resident of Portland, Judy was the third of five daughters born to Elliott R. and Alta Smith Corbett, a former Reed Regent (1919-41). She attended Riverdale School, Miss Catlin’s School (Catlin Gabel School), the Branson School, and Smith, graduating in 1936 with a degree in history and a minor in physics. An eventful plane trip from Portland to Smith in her junior year—which included landing in an Iowa cornfield—sparked her interest in joining the Smith College Flying Club. Returning from college in 1939, she met physician Donald Forster, whom she married. They raised a family of three sons and one daughter. She was an active participant in the Portland community, serving on the boards of the Parry Center, OMSI, and Reed. In sharing the news of her death, President John R. Kroger said, “Although I did not have the pleasure of knowing Judy, I know her connections to Reed run deep, and that the college has lost a beloved friend.” Judy volunteered with the PTA of Riverdale School and lent her support for the Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Historical Society, Smith College, Catlin Gabel School, and the League of Women Voters. Survivors include two sons and a daughter, eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren. Her husband and son predeceased her. Her cousin, Laurie Cummins ’39, also served on the Reed board of trustees. Remembrances may be made in Judy’s name to Catlin Gabel School or Reed College.

Appeared in Reed magazine: March 2014

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