In Remembrance
Theodore“ Ted” Forrest, MD October 3, 1955-June 16, 2025
Dr. Theodore“ Ted” Forrest was my dear friend and partner in the emergency department for over 35 years. I was humbled when Ted’ s family asked me to write a brief remembrance of my friend. It is a difficult task because it’ s hard to express how much Ted touched my life and the lives of those whose hearts were broken when we heard the news that Ted had gone to be with the Lord. As I received the news of his death, I began to weep, but not for him, but for those of us who must mourn his loss. Dora, Mason, Conner and Will, we must grieve honestly and patiently; we must rely on each other and not grieve alone.
The first scripture that reminded me of Ted was Matthew 5:16:“ Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”
Ted was a shining light for many, reflected in the countless lives he touched. Although he was a very private person, his identity was widely recognized. He wasn’ t just a doctor who happened to be a Christian, but a Christian who happened to be a doctor.
Every time we meet someone, we leave an impression on them. When I think of Ted, I realize he was a walking miracle for many, not the kind of miracle people often imagine when they hear that word, but the simple miracle of divine appointments. Throughout Ted’ s long career, we estimate he cared for more than 200,000 patients and their
families. I saw Ted’ s compassionate touch with his patients and their families, both the physical touch of his medical skill and the emotional comfort of his kind words to hurting families.
He consistently inspired us with his endless energy, outperforming everyone in our group. He always showed compassion, even when exhausted, and demonstrated patience and kindness toward challenging patients. His compassion and love extended to the staff in our department, from simple acts of kindness, such as bringing donuts and pizzas, to providing emotional support during times of family crisis.
The impact one person can have is limitless. While Dr. Ted’ s medical expertise and intuition in patient care were undeniable, we will also remember him for the most important thing we leave behind: the spiritual legacy he left with his family. As I spent time at his bedside, I could feel the presence of his Christian faith and love through his family. The Lord used Ted as a testimony of love through his humility and compassion toward his family.
I will miss Ted and grieve, but I believe we will see him again in Heaven. Our faith assures us that Ted is now in the arms of Christ, and even if given a choice, he would not leave the embrace of our Savior. He will hear the cherished words,“ Well done, my faithful servant,” and his beautiful daughter, Millie, will cry out,“ Welcome to heaven, Daddy.”
-Tom McKechnie, MD
Dr. Forrest was a member of GLMS for 12 years.
28 LOUISVILLE MEDICINE