Jake Fortenberry, 98, of Adrian, TX passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2022, after a sudden illness.
Memorial services will be at 2:30, Friday, April 15, 2022, at the Adrian Church of Christ, with Bret McCasland officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd., Amarillo.
Jake was born June 14, 1923, Flag Day, in Floyd Co., to Hugh and Nannie Massengale Fortenberry. He attended Adrian Schools graduating as Valedictorian. He married Mary Beatrice Brothers July 22, 1944. They farmed and ranched in Adrian for 72 years, before Bea’s passing in 2017. They raised three children.
Jake continued farming and ranching west of Adrian, was the Adrian Postmaster for 25 years, served as an Elder, Bible teacher, and led singing for many years. He was Oldham Co. man of the year in 2004, served on the Adrian School Board, was the Tax Assessor, served on the ASCS board, an honorary FFA member, and received the Distinguished service award from SWCD for 15 years of service.
His family came to Oldham/Deaf Smith Counties, travelling by covered wagon in 1933, and the Fortenberry homestead was built on the Oldham Deaf Smith County line west of Adrian. He owned and continued to manage the farm until his death.
Jake was known for his intellect, his vast knowledge of the Bible, and his ability to repair everything, and the day before his death he was engaged in overhauling a motor.
Jake was a proud WWII Veteran, serving from 1944-1946 in the Philippines as a Staff Sgt, Army Co E, 63rd Infantry, 6th Division. After the end of the war, he served in Korea with the Army of Occupation, receiving numerous honors and medals.
He was preceded in death by his wife Bea, parents, sister Lonella Bohannon, brothers Frank, Richard and Roy Fortenberry; and grandson, Isaac Love DeLeon.
Survivors include two daughters, Coralie Cox and husband Speck of Hale Center, Patty Griggs of Lubbock and son Mack Fortenberry and wife Cindy of Zephyr, Tx; his brother, Donald Fortenberry, of Friona; six grandchildren, Jake, Nikki, Mandy, Cody, Richelle, and Zeke, eleven great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
The family suggest memorials to Key to the Kingdom, 1406 SW 62nd, Amarillo, TX 79118 or a favorite charity.
The family will receive guests at the Adrian Church of Christ at 309 Walnut, Adrian, TX from 5-7:00 p.m., Thursday evening April 14, 2022.
Such a kind and generous man. He was always so humble, yet so strong. Buck and Susie McGee
Mack, Cindy, and family,
So Sorry for your loss, with deepest sympathy.
Eddie, Sherri, and family
Jake was always a blessing to me while growing up in Adrian. He will be greatly missed, but is now rejoicing in the presence of Jesus Christ his Savior. Jake was a shining example of who Christ wants us to be.
I remember Jake always having a smile on his face.
Sending prayers and hugs, will miss you Jake, 💕💕