I'm saddened to learn of Jackie's triumphant entry into God's eternal resting place, but at the same time rejoice in Jackie claiming his just reward.  No doubt, the very first words Jackie heard as he arrived were, "Well done my good and faithful servant...."  That's the Jackie Fortune that I knew.

I was so sad to hear of Jackie's passing.  I knew him during our years at FSU in the circus.  He was a talented performer, and a genuinely nice and special  person.  
I'm sorry for your family's loss.

Katy Lindley Doten
Miami, FL

I was so saddened to hear of the death of Jackie.  I only knew him for four years--but what a time we had on the trapeze!!  He was the greatest of them all.

Felicia, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers

Michael, Lisa, and Felicia,
Andi and I were so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you..
Andi and Allen Schwartz

With brave, unselfish love, Jackie prepared us as best he could.

When I got word from Michael about his dads passing, my ears rang with the haunting voice of the late coach Jack Haskin, pitching out those masterful spiels about his clowns and the flying act. 

With unapologetic fondness, they were mostly about Jackie Fortune, who stole every show and everyones heart.  It is an understatement to say he was special.  He was the youngest of three Fortune Boys, as Haskin enjoyed describing them from Laurel Hill, Florida. 

Jackie was clearly a Haskin and coach Jim DeCosmo favorite. His Flying High program-cover photo as the trapeze clown is iconic.  His physical comedy was brilliant.  Last week, Michael mentioned how his dad loved to reminisce about the Circus and how those memories have really helped to keep up his spirits. As I told the present director of the FSU Circus, it is ironic that a guy who raised the spirits of the FSU Circus audiences 60 years ago, then has his own spirits lifted by Circus memories at the time of his passing.

Its hard to say what Jackies legacy should be. He has loved the Lord and kept the faith for a lifetime.  His family of Faye, Michael and Felicia could not be more caring or devoted.  Also, Jackie has maintained extraordinary friendships over the decades.  Needless to say, there will be joy in Heaven upon his arrival.

Edgar B. Eddie Wycoff
FSU Circus, 1954-57
Jackie high-bar teammate



I knew Jackie through my cousin and his wife, Faye. Jackie was truely one of the finest men I have ever met. He was a special person in every way. The world has lost a wonderful human being and heaven had gained a beautiful soul.

Sharon and I grieve with you and love you Faye.

I knew Jackie through the FSU Circus during his final year there. He left an indelible memory in my mind for his performances as a clown and for his funny antics on the low trapeze. He was loved and admired by all. My heart goes out to Faye and his family.

I worked in claims for 25 years at State Farm.  I had the luck of working with Mr. Fortune, who was one of the nicest and friendliest people I ever knew.  Never an unkind word to or about anyone.  Everyone will miss him for sure.
I am sending prayers to the family.

I was very fortunate to have had the Fortune Experience as Jackie's roommate for his senior year at Florida State.   Being part of the circus with Jackie is a treasured memory.   He possessed an inspiring Christian faith and an irrepressible personality.

Jackie was a dear dear friend and his smile and laughter brightened wherever he was. Ralph cherished his friendship and was touched by his hospital visit. The world was much better place because of him .  Much love to his family 
 Dianna reynolds

So sorry for your loss.  You are in my prayers.

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers.

I am so sorry to hear about your father. You and your family are in my prayers.

I was privileged to have the friendship of all three of the beloved "Fortune Boys". Jackie and I maintained this friendship for over 60 years, dating back to FSU and our circus performing days.I will dearly miss him and mourn along with you, the wife and children he was so very proud of.

Your family has been and will remain in our prayers.  The love you shared has not ended but will endure, and I am thankful for the promise that you will be reunited one day. God bless you.

So sorry for your loss, praying for you all,  Kathy Brooks

Faye and family so sorry to hearof Jackies passing he was life long friend ,since the first grade in Laurel Hill Florida and will be greatly missed, he was loved by all he met and a good man. 

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Jackie. We will keep the family in our prayers at church.

Frankie Crichton
Bereavement Deacon, Central Baptist Deacon

I did not know about Jackie's background as a circus performer. I am not surprised. He could succeed at just about anything. Felicia, I am so sorry for your loss. I certainly enjoyed knowing your father.

OBITUARY

Jackie Wayland Fortune

December 12, 1935 – July 13, 2017

Berry Highland Memorial

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services