Brenda “Bea” Oswalt, 72, of Wabash, Indiana, passed peacefully at her home on Saturday, August 8, 2026. Born June 8, 1954, in Wabash to Junior Maxwell and Doris B. (Carpenter) Forbes, Bea grew up with a spirited energy that carried her through every chapter of her life.
A 1972 graduate of Northfield High School, Bea later earned her bachelor’s degree from Manchester University in 1991, a milestone that reflected her commitment to growth and education. On January 21, 1973, she married Joseph Oswalt at the Wabash Christian Church, beginning a marriage rooted in partnership, laughter, and deep family devotion.
Bea spent 25 years teaching at White’s Residential and Family Services, where she shaped lives with patience, compassion, and unwavering dedication. She was a proud member of the Teachers Union, believing strongly in the value and dignity of her profession.
In her younger years, Bea’s vibrant personality shone brightly-she was a cheerleader, a gymnast, and even performed in the Peru Circus, a testament to her grace, athleticism, and love of performance. She enjoyed reading, especially the works of John Grisham, and found joy in traveling to Florida and soaking up the sun at the lake. Above all, Bea’s greatest passion was her family, who were the center of her world. One of Bea’s favorite movies was It’s a Wonderful Life, and just like the movie, Bea finally got her wings.
Bea is survived by her husband, Joseph Oswalt of Wabash; her children, Amanda (Robert “Pete” Peterson) Oswalt Randel of Lagro, Indiana and Andrew (Amy) Oswalt, of Wabash; and her grandchildren: Alexi (Cody) Smalley of Indianapolis, Audrie (Clayton) Chamberlain of Wabash, Jace (Lauren Koester) Randel of Indianapolis, Kasen Oswalt, and Kamden Oswalt, both of Wabash. She also leaves behind four great‑grandchildren-Sadie Smalley, Colsen Chamberlain, Jackson Smalley, and Carver Chamberlain-as well as her sister, Eileen Biehl of North Manchester, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her three brothers: Roger Forbes, Wayne Forbes, and Thomas Forbes.
A celebration of Bea’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Grandstaff‑Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash. Friends and family may sign her memorial guest book at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
The family wishes to give a special thanks to Parkview Hospice for their exceptional care of Bea.
In lieu of flowers, the preferred memorial is Parkview Hospice.
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