I have lots of memories of Stephen growing up.  I loved talking to him because he always had answers that were funny.  My condolences to his family.

I remember Stephen fondly when your family lived across the street on Prancer. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

I remember Stephen from St. Raphael. He was a kind soul. May he rest in peace with God 🙏🕯️

When anyone, let alone a family member dies young the only comfort in knowing that in his faith in Jesus, he is saved and we will meet again in a better place. May you be well until then my brother in marriage and my brother in Christ.

I was happy to see Stephen a few times at Lafreniere when I was visiting my brother. Stephen was always gracious, as he remembered all of us growing up in Lake Oaks. On one particular occasion, he was having breakfast and “holding court” with several admires gathered around listening intently. He seemed delighted . Now Stephen is in assembly with the Angels, Saints, and our Lord and Savior in  Heaven.

Carolyn Melcher

I had the pleasure of taking care of Stephen at Our Lady of the Lake. He brought us great joy, and many giggles. It was so nice to see how loved he was by family. Him and his Saints hat will be remembered. I will be praying for his family and may Stephen rest in peace.

I fondly remember visiting my grandparents and uncle Stephen in New Orleans during my childhood. One particularly fond memory is  of visiting Audubon Zoo, Stephen let me ride on his shoulders all day. What a view from that height, I could easily see over all the other children and into any enclosure! Stephen graciously spent time with with my three brothers and myself, allowing us to play Super Mario Bros on his vintage nintendo console, and entertaining us by playing compositions on his keyboard.

Rest in peace, Stephen

Uncle Steven was an intellectually and creatively inclined person, and his passions for music, writing, and art showed both love of creating and love for his Creator. Much like St. Francis, he had a love for animals that was only eclipsed by his love of worship. He would frequently tell me of how much he enjoyed mass in particular, and I think that if I had to pick a place to put him in heaven- I would say he's likely playing the keyboard at a mass while my grandparents listen on. It was a shock to hear of his passing- particularly considering how sudden it was. But I am assured fully of where he went, and that he is with Jesus enjoying divine compositions that the human ear on earth has yet to have the pleasure to hear. I cannot wait to see him again, to talk to him about all the books I've read and music I've heard- and to hear in return what he has learned on the other side of eternity.

Stephen had a strong faith which served him well during his life. He  was a close companion to our parents until age and illness overtook them. Despite his  struggles, he believed in Jesus Christ as his savior. He stated recently he would wake at 4am and listen to Christian programs until time for breakfast. I believe he is fully healed in heaven and reunited with those who have gone before. He was blessed in his life to have great friends and to be a great friend to others. Thank you to David, Alice, and Karen who were instrumental in his care for the past 5 years.

Stephen,  I'll always remember your time in Connecticut (which happened to coincide with my wedding).  You were always cheerful & patient with my mom, your Aunt Dorothy, and her requirements for your stay at our house in Middletown.  May you rest in Peace.
Your cousin, Jackie (Smoloski) Johnson

Stephen was my brother-in -law. Over the course of several months this year I had the privilege of spending time with him in Baton Rouge. He opened my eyes to his life at Holly Court, introducing me to new and old friends, playing his music compositions, and inviting me to church services. His life was full and he found joy in those relationships, creative pursuits, and his faith. May he rest peacefully and eternally in the Lord.

I was stunned to hear of Stephen's demise when David called me last Saturday. He was a good-natured soul and sort of a gentle giant. You could indeed have a conversation with Steve about myriad topics. We enjoyed the outdoors when  he was around particularly when he stayed with us in Middletown in 1987. He had an adventurous palate and was appreciative of many fish and game dinners.
An early memory is from the family reunion at Cove Point Beach in 1972. Many of us went fishing on the Island Queen. Stephen was a little kid with a tight haircut. He was enamored with the bait and was nicknamed "Captain of the Worms" by Aunt Virginia.
Stephen and I would talk by phone every few months. I wish he could call now. Eternal rest grant unto him, Lord.

I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers and sympathy to Stephen’s family and friends. Stephen and I have been friends since we were children when the Fortenberry family lived across from us on Prancer Street in New Orleans. We kept in touch over the years, but we have been more in touch with social media and texting for the last several years.  We would text each other almost every day usually on the following: "How are you doing?", "What's for breakfast", "How was dinner?”, “How is your latest project going?", a discussion on the Saints football team, or some current event.  I was always amazed by Stephen's brilliance on any topic and how informed and articulate he was on just about every current event.  I always knew Stephen as a believer and very faithful to the Lord. We all have adversity in our lives sometimes when we need more than we can do for ourselves. The thing I liked most about our relationship was that when I needed a prayer, Stephen was always willing to pray for me and I for him. I will miss him greatly because I know his prayers helped me get through some dark times. Although I lost a great friend, I gained an angel that I know I can still ask to pray for me. God Bless!

In my brother Stephen’s memory I would like to share that he recognized the most important aspect of living. He established a long, deep, strong relationship with God the Father. He accepted Jesus as his personal Savior and he honored the Holy Spirit by sharing his Christian Faith with many people. He was never ashamed or fearful of declaring that he was a Christian and  a follower of Jesus. Stephen enjoyed attending Catholic Masses and Protestant Services as well as watching Christian Television programs.
Stephen was a comfort and supportive companion to our mother Dolly after our father Bob passed. He was a deep thinker and an excellent communicator. My heart rejoices as Stephen now lives the Best Life ever, Eternity in Heaven with other loved ones and with his Creator.  I look forward to joining him when God takes me home.

I was in charge of a St.Clement of Rome group in the 1990's. Was happy to welcome Steve to the club around 1993.  Will always remember this humble gentleman who grew up in Lake Oaks.  He was very bright and could hold interesting conversation on practicly any topic.  Just an extremely nice person.  Could tell he was brought up in a wonderful family.  Now in heaven with his parents.  Rest in peace Steve.

Stephan was a good uncle that treated me and my siblings with kindness, respect and patience. I know that it couldn't have been too easy to have four (or more) kids suddenly in your home for a week running, screaming, being generally rambunctious. But Stephan was always calm around us, telling us storys and talking about his current project. I will always remember how much fun it was to watch him play with his dog Sinbad, who was a good sport about being picked up and tousled. 

Rest in Peace, Stephan 

Nelson Fortenberry, nephew

As a kid, Uncle Stephen would play organ tunes for my brother and me on his keyboard that he had composed. I thought they were great, and I wish I had a recording of them now. 

I cherish many similar memories. Stephen's ability to relate to his me in an authentic way made an lasting positive impression on me. That has influenced how I manage my own relationships with my nieces, nephews and now my daughter.

I will miss you, Stephen.

David, I am so sorry for your loss.    My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Carol Dearden

RIP Stevie, we had some fun times with you and the rest of the family back in the day.

Mike Haik

Stephen, my earthly brother of 59 yrs, is now my celestial brother. It's hard to comprehend. God be praised that he is now in the Divine presence and the communion of saints, united with Christ in every way.

Stephen's earthly life certainly had it's share of challenges, however he had a certain deftness in overcoming obstacles. His capacity for interesting conversations and profound thought was remarkable. It is the greatest blessing that he is now in the warm embrace of Jesus, and surrounded by Robert and Dolly and countless others. 

I would like to thank his caregivers, including Drs Bizette, Schroeder, Lyons, Godke, Thomas, Bahian, Raibstein, Massengale as well as the nurses and staff at Our Lady of the Lake. Their care was extraordinary. I would also like to thank the staff and residents of Holly Court and LaFreniere assisted living facilities, who provided care, friendship and warmth.

Until we meet again my brother! Rest in God's love.

Dear Linda, Karen, David, Leslie, and Dianne,
Kathy and I were so sorry to hear about Stephen. He was such a kind, smart, and talented man. His uniqueness made him so loveable, and he will be missed by all of us. We cherish the memories of him at the family Thanksgiving dinners for so many years. Kathy and I will be sadly unable to be at his services, but our love, thoughts, and prayers are will all of you during this difficult time. She and I were reminiscing about him yesterday, and we know he is with Aunt Dolly and Uncle Bob in Heaven. 
Love you all,
Your cousin Debbie (& Kathy)

OBITUARIO

Stephen Patrick Fortenberry

17 enero, 1966 – 15 octubre, 2025

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

Muestre su apoyo

Comparta Un Recuerdo

Comparta
Un Obituario

Obtenga actualizaciones

Servicios