Deborah K. (Jordan) Fortner

Deborah Kay Fortner, 62, earned her wings as she passed peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on July 12, 2017 with her adoring family by her side.

“Debbie” was born on April 12, 1955 in Charleston, WV to John and Wanda Jordan. She was the fifth of 16 children that included sisters Joyce Drummonds, Charmie Starcher, Lydia Williams, Jane Stanley, Robin Taylor, Jennifer Donner, Melody Jordan, Lisa Medley, and Elaine Jordan, and brothers Michael, John, Greg, Ricky, Jesse, and Ronnie Jordan. Fondly referred to as the “Jordan Clan.”

When Debbie was 18 she visited Speedwell, TN, where she met the love of her life, Jerry Fortner. They married that same year on November 10, 1973 in a small church ceremony. During their 43 years of marriage they accomplished so much together, their greatest achievement and legacy being their three dear children: Christina Fortner Cutcher (Tommy), Barbara “Renee” Fortner, and Jerry Allen Fortner. Their grandchildren are Alanah and Xavier “Bubby” Story, Kylie and Kaden Cutcher, and Bentlee Fortner.

Debbie was known as the life of the party; she was always up for an adventure, and her smile could light up any room. She never met a stranger, and she loved everybody. She also loved shopping, fashion, and bling! However, her favorite thing to do was spend time with her family, and she sure did love being on the lake. She dedicated her whole life providing for her family. She loved to cook, especially chicken and dumplings, and you never left her house hungry. She never missed a ball game or school event and was always there supporting her children throughout her life. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. “You’ll never ever know how much I love you,” she told them frequently. No matter the hour or the distance, she would drop everything to be there for her family.

Debbie was preceded in death by her adoring father and beloved mother, sister Lydia, brother Ronnie, in-laws Frank and Clearcie Fortner, and cherished sister-in-law, Pansy Jordan. Her surviving family members are numerous.

Debbie will be greatly missed by her friends and family, who can find comfort knowing that she is now in paradise with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

John 14:1-3 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

A receiving of family and friends will be held Saturday, July 15, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Reece Funeral Home in Harrogate, TN. A memorial service will follow at 8:00 PM officiated by Reverend Thomas A. Cutcher. Music performed by the Powers family. A graveside service will be held at Loy Cemetery in Speedwell, TN Sunday, July 16 at 10:00 AM. Pallbearers: Tommy Cutcher, Christopher Cutcher, Craig Brewer, Johnny Logan, Marvin Peek, and Glenn Lasley.

Reece Funeral Home is honored to serve the Fortner family.  Sign the guest book at www.reecevalleychapel.com.