Before entering public office, Mark Forbes dedicated ten years to working with families and youth at Sanctuary, Inc. and later served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Director for Policy and Communications under Governor Joe Ada and Lt. Governor Frank Blas' administration. 

He was first elected as a senator in the 23rd Guam Legislature and served consecutively until his tenure as Speaker in the 28th and 29th Legislatures. 

Forbes unexpectedly passed Sunday morning. He was 70 years old.

His legacy includes significant government reforms, including legislation that reduced the legislature from 21 to 15 members, established the Office of Public Accountability, and made the Attorney General of Guam an elected position.

Tributes poured in for Forbes.

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said, “Speaker Forbes served our island with profound intelligence, conviction, and a deep commitment to public service. His leadership in the Guam Legislature was marked by fiscal responsibility, steady governance, and a principled approach to policymaking.”

Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio added, “When speaker Forbes spoke, the island listened.”

"Speaker Forbes was a true statesman whose dedication and knowledge made a lasting impact on our community. His legacy of public service will continue to inspire us all,” said Congressman Moylan.

The Republican Party of Guam issued a statement as well.

“A public servant and mentor to many elected and appointed Guam public officials, Speaker Forbes led a movement that personified the current effort of common-sense governance with an eye on protecting the great culture of our island society in Micronesia.”

Speaker Frank Blas, Jr. reflected on Forbes' lasting contributions:

"Speaker Forbes will long be remembered for his work on government reorganization and reform. On behalf of my colleagues, our families, and all who work in our offices and central operations, our thoughts and prayers go to his wife, Cina, his son, Sean, and his other family members on the passing of an honorable political icon."

Monday morning during the first session of the 38th Guam Legislature, a moment of silence.

Funeral arrangements are pending, and the family kindly requests prayers for his soul.

Flags will be flown at half-staff in honor of his life and legacy.

Former Governor Edward "Eddie" Baza Calvo released a statement:

“I was deeply saddened on hearing of the passing of former Speaker Mark Forbes. I first served with Mark upon being elected to the 25th Guam Legislature. We worked collaboratively throughout most of my career as a senator. I consider Mark as one of the most intelligent and forward-thinking policy makers the Guam Legislature has ever had. His legislation set the path forward for an island government that evolved to become more accountable to the taxpayers and voters. He also contributed greatly to moving forward Guam’s agenda in local/ federal relations and political self-determination. Speaker Forbes was my colleague and mentor. More importantly, he was my friend. My deep condolences to his wife Cina and son Sean. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his brother Pale Eric Forbes and all other family and loved ones. Guam has lost a giant!”