Jackie Pearson Fortner, 79, of Snow Camp, NC went home to be with the Lord after an extended illness on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at Hospice in Burlington, NC. He was a native of Swain County and the son of the late Elijah, Sr. and Notie Belle Baines Fortner. He was also preceded in death by his brother Elijah, Jr. and a sister Maxine and best friend and brother-in-law, George Moore.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marian Crisp Fortner; his son, Jackie Wayne Fortner and wife Susan Ann; granddaughter, Kelsy “Piccabo” Jacqueline Ector and husband Brent; grandson, Samuel Elijah Fortner “Samo” and Alyse Ring; great grandson, Jack Wilson Ector; brothers, Johnny G. Fortner and wife Pat of Murfreesboro, TN, and Roger Fortner and wife Connie of Clinton, TN; sisters, Josephine Moore of Bryson City, NC and Lois Crisp and husband Ray of High Point; and many nieces and nephews and cousins.
He was baptized in Deep Creek on a cold day in February with snow on the banks of the creek by Preacher Walter Hare. Jackie was a United States Army Veteran, 3rd Division, in Germany. Jack had several jobs but loved best the time he served in Law Enforcement as a Deputy, Dispatcher, and Chief Jailor. His love for bluegrass music was his passion. Time spent the last few years with his son’s family, fishing, hunting, and playing bluegrass with “Samo” and Jackie Wayne were the best. He especially loved playing the banjo.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at Bethel Baptist Church. Jack’s preacher boy/grandson- in- law Brent Ector, Rev. David Jackson, and Scott London will be officiating accompanied by the Alamance County Sheriff’s Department as Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service at the church.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Advance Home Health Nurses and Hospice for the special care given to Jackie.
Rich and Thompson Funeral Home and Crematory in Graham is assisting the family.
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