Obituary of Mr. Arthur Lee Fortson Jr.

Mr. Arthur Lee Fortson Jr. was born on December 12, 1952, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, to the late Arthur Lee Fortson Sr. and Brencish Francish Duhart Fortson. On March 23, 2026, at the age of 73, Arthur made a peaceful transition to his eternal resting place.

Arthur received his early education in Delaware and graduated from Caesar Rodney High School in 1971. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army and the Army Reserves. After his military service, he continued his education at Delaware State University, where he earned a degree in Corrections.

Mr. Fortson dedicated many years of service to the Florida Department of Corrections. Through hard work, commitment, and leadership, he rose through the ranks and ultimately retired as Chief of Polk Correctional Institution. His career was marked by integrity, discipline, and a passion for service.

On May 29, 1982, Arthur was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mrs. Deborah Jean Fortson. Together, they built a loving family and shared many cherished years.

Arthur was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord and was devoted to his church. He was a beacon of love, strength, and compassion to all who knew him. His warm spirit, gentle nature, and sense of humor brought joy to family and friends alike.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife, Deborah Jean Fortson; his children, Henry Fortson, Arthur Fortson III, Orienthel Fortson, Sherry Fortson, Mark Jones, Allisa Jones, and Gemma Jones; his sister, Ethel Lee Coffee; and a host of grandchildren, including Hasheam Fortson, Atavius Newton, Jamarlin Dasher, Kinyawna Fortson, Henry Fortson Jr., Eboni Fortson, Caylah Sykes, Zy’Mirah Jackson, Zy’Esha Fortson, Roderick Fortson, Shaquoia Jones, Shakell Jones, NazMir Morris, Jaqoui Jones, Alissa Haith, and Carlos Richardson Jr.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his bonus children, Keith Saunders, Joe Saunders, Kionda Saunders, and Kenta Saunders, along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Lee Fortson Sr. and Brencish Francish Duhart Fortson; his sisters, Ella Mae Hunter and Ida Lee Hudson; his son, Roderick Fortson; and his grandson, Javon Jones.

Arthur’s life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication to family. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and lives of all those he touched. His laughter, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith will never be forgotten.