DIED. Author, musician, and artist Elroy Forbes Jr., 69, died January 24 in Houston’s Veterans Administration hospital. A veteran of the Navy, Forbes also authored books and plays, and was perhaps best known for playing King Henry VIII in the early years of the Texas Renaissance Festival. A frequently recognizable face in Houston’s gay community, Forbes published Houston Scene Magazine as well as Houston’s first Pride Guide for Pride Houston. Most recently he was a member of the Houston Pride Band, playing tuba. He is survived by his friend and companion, Phil Smith, numerous family members, and many friends. Funeral services were held January 28 at Resurrection MCC Church, with burial at Houston National Cemetery. –

