of Benton, AR
October 9, 1940 - June 12, 2012
James R. Fortner, 71, of Benton passed away Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at his home. He was born on October 9, 1940 in Cale, AR to the late Arley Franklin and Vivian Lucille Jones Fortner. Mr. Fortner attended the Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in Vilonia and the United Missionary Baptist Church in Salem. He loved to play the guitar, served in the U. S. Army, and was a mobile equipment operator for Alcoa for 32 years.
In addition to his parents his wife, Betty Garren Fortner and son, Jody Fortner also preceded him in death, both in 2009.
Survivors include his two daughters, Jamie Fortner of Bryant and Teresa Baker of Conway; four sons, Rick Fortner and wife Terri of Sheridan, Roger Fortner and wife Anna of Fountain Valley, CA, Elvis Garren and wife Terry, of Conway, and Dale Garren of Conway; three brothers, Cletus, Johnny, and Paul Fortner all of Saline County; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, and many friends.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 16, 2012 in the chapel of Roller-Ballard Funeral Home (315-4047) with Rev. Mike Harmon officiating. A private interment will take place later at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Honorary pallbearers are James Prysock, Kenny Welch, W. M. Smith, Cecil Byers, Ritchie Haley, and Bro. Wesley McCrotty.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, June 15th at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, 50 Eagle St., Vilonia, AR 72173 and/or United Missionary Baptist Church, 3810 Salem Road, Benton, AR 72019.
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8 Condolence(s)
Danny Perryman
Friday, June 15, 2012
James will be missed at the senior adult center on monday morning. We all enjoyed his company and his music.
John and Robin Fortner
Thursday, June 14, 2012
(John)Uncle James you will be missed greatly and our last visit was a joy. Love you much and God Speed!!!
(Robin) "We are deeply saddened to hear about James's passing. He was a dear colleague and friend to many, and our hearts are with you as you mourn. My thoughts and prayers will be with the family during this time. I have heard many great things from the residents and families at the nursing homes that James played music and sang for...RIP....what a wonderful picture and smile he had!!!
Sam and Sandra Robbecke
Thursday, June 14, 2012
We are very sorry for your loss. Sam worked with him at Alcoa. We talked to him often at the Western Sizzler. He was a very nice man.
Brandy Tucker
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Rick and family
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow. We are here for you if you need us Rick and praying for your guys. May your memories give you strength.Please let us know if we can do anything
Brandy Tucker
Jeff & Kelly Ashley
Thursday, June 14, 2012
We will so miss Bro. James R. Fortner. We loved him & Betty so very much. He always had a smile and handshake for everyone he met. But now is walking all over Heaven with his bride.
Tonya Peters
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
I was shocked to hear of James' death. I remember him calling and saying, "James R. Fortner here.". I enjoyed listening to him play his guitar and singing. Hopefully he is in heaven singing with the angels. I am sorry for your loss.
Wesley and Donita Sample
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Your family is in our prayers. James will be greatly missed.
Mike and Shelly Harmon
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Please accept our condonlencese. Bro. James was a good friend and a faithful church member. We will all miss him. Our prayers are with you.