Howard “Doodle” Clay Forsythe, age 91, of Cambridge, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Enclave of Cambridge. Born July 29, 1935, in Quaker City, he was the son of the late Edson Forsythe and Waunita (Starr) Forsythe.

Howard grew up on Fair Street in Quaker City and attended the First Christian Church of Quaker City. In high school, he played drums in the band and was a member of the Quaker City basketball team. After graduating high school as a young man, he hitchhiked north to visit his aunt and uncle, and during that time decided to pursue barber school. He attended barber school and worked as a barber in Columbus.

While in Columbus, Howard enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served as a plank owner aboard the U.S.S. Ranger, part of her first commissioning crew. He served as a barber for Navy pilots. In 1960, after returning home, he opened his own barber shop in Quaker City.

Howard also worked as a heavy equipment operator and contributed to the development of the J.C. Penney Outlet area. He spent time working in the strip mines and in reclamation. He enjoyed coon and rabbit hunting and was known for having excellent coon dogs, often competing in dog trials.

He loved growing dahlias and tomatoes and attended the First Christian Church in Cambridge with his wife, Maxine. Howard especially cherished time spent with his grandson, David—fishing, hunting, and taking long rides through the countryside. Earlier in life, he enjoyed motorcycles, and he always looked forward to attending the Guernsey County Fair and watching the horse races.

Howard is survived by his wife, Maxine Ella (Griffith) Lewis Forsythe; they shared over 65 years together. He is also survived by his step son Jeff (Susan) Lewis of Pickerington, Ohio; his grandson David (Sara) Lewis of Englewood, Ohio; his great-grandson Forrest Lewis also of Englewood; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at Northwood Cemetery Chapel on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 11 am with Pastor Bob Hollins officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Guernsey County Veterans Council. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Hospice of Guernsey, P.O. Box 1165, Cambridge, Ohio 43725. Everyone is welcome to accompany the family to the gravesite for a quick prayer following the service.

Howard’s online guest book may be viewed and signed at www.bundy-lawfuneralhome.com.