Dr. Robert N. “Bob” Fortenberry, of Sandy Hook, Mississippi, passed from this life into God’s presence on August 16, 2021 at the age of 88. He was born in Thomas, Louisiana to Jack and Kertie Fortenberry and grew up in Sandy Hook. Bob, as he was affectionately known by family and friends, was a 1950 graduate of Columbia High School and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Mississippi College in 1954. He joined the U.S. Army and served our country for three years then returned to Mississippi College to earn a Master’s Degree. Continuing his education, Bob earned his Doctorate of Education Degree from Auburn University. He was a lifelong educator, including seventeen years as the Superintendent of Education for the Jackson Public Schools. Bob returned home to Sandy Hook in 1997 and served his community and his Lord as a Deacon at Sandy Hook Baptist Church. He will be remembered for being passionate about education and his love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Bob was a man of deep faith who was devoted to his family and his church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Claude H. Fortenberry; and a son, Richard Fortenberry. Bob is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty Fortenberry; a daughter, Rebecca Hance (Doug); a son, Robert Fortenberry (Margaret); five grandchildren, Bethany Cole (Daniel), Charissa Fortenberry, Elizabeth Hance, Caroline Hance, and Daniel Hance (Doyeon); and two great-grandsons, August Cole and Deacon Cole.
The funeral service, officiated by Reverend Ricky Daugherty, will be at the graveside in the Sandy Hook Baptist Church Cemetery on Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 10:30am.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Bob's honor to Sandy Hook Baptist Church.
