Title
To Celebrate and Recognize the Life of Forrest Winchester Jr.
Body
WHEREAS, Forrest Winchester Jr., who passed away on March 25, 2025. Born in 1954, Forrest Winchester Jr. was a dedicated community leader, a mentor to countless youth, and a legendary boxer who left an indelible mark on the world of sports and the lives of many; and
WHEREAS, Forrest Winchester Jr. devoted over 14 years of service to the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department as a boxing coach at Beatty Recreation Center, where he provided guidance, encouragement, and discipline to young athletes. His dedication and impact earned him a rightful place in the Beatty Recreation Center Hall of Fame for Boxing; and
WHEREAS, his passion for the sport extended beyond the gym as he trained aspiring boxers for competitions at the Ohio State Fair for over 15 years, helping young athletes develop skills that propelled them to championship success. He was not only a mentor in the ring but also a guiding force in the community. He worked at the Training Institute of Central Ohio (TICO), where he provided structure and support to wayward youth, helping to shape their futures through discipline, perseverance, and hope; and
WHEREAS, his impact in boxing reached far beyond Columbus, as he proudly represented the United States of America in the International Pan American Games and achieved remarkable success throughout his career. His legacy extended beyond his own achievements, as he earned the respect of some of the most revered figures in boxing, including Mike Tyson, James “Buster” Douglas, Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, and Aaron “The Hawk” Pryor; and
WHEREAS, Forrest Winchester Jr. was not only a champion in the ring but also in life. His unwavering commitment to mentoring youth, fostering sportsmanship, and uplifting his community solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of our time and a pillar of the Columbus community; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL ...
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