of Little Rock, AR

September 4, 1935 - August 8, 2025

Gaylia Ann Causey Fortson, age 89, of Little Rock, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on August 8, 2025, at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary.

She was born on September 4, 1935, in Pine Bluff to Daisy and R.B. Causey. Gaylia received her Bachelor of Arts from Oklahoma Baptist University and went on to teach English and classical Latin in public schools before devoting herself fully to her greatest calling, being a wife, mother, - grandmother, and great-grandmother.

On June 9, 1957, Gaylia married the love of her life, Gene Fortson, and together they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. Her life was marked by faith, kindness, and selflessness. Gaylia loved to travel with her family and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her younger years, she was also an avid tennis player, participating in USTA tennis leagues at the 4.0 level as well as competitive regional tournaments. Gaylia was a faithful member of St. James United Methodist Church, where she found joy in worship and fellowship with her church family.

She is survived by her husband, Gene Fortson; daughter, Gigi Bailey; son, Grant Fortson (Jaime); grandchildren, Brooke Wilson (Ryan), Mary Kate Vogel (Sam), Dr. Ben Fortson (Sarah), Caroline Fortson, Hannah Bailey, and Claire Fortson; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Gregory Fortson.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Ben Crismon and Rev. Siegfried S. Johnson. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. James United Methodist Church Endowment Fund or Easterseals Arkansas.

Arrangements are entrusted to Roller-Chenal Funeral Home.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com