Marisa Verlene Fortenberry

Marisa Verlene Sparks Fortenberry passed peacefully from her earthly home to her heavenly home on July 7, 2016. Marisa was born February 8, 1936, to Rev. Virgil C. and Winnie Elma Sparks in Denton, TX. Being the daughter of an Assembly of God Minister, Marisa adjusted to moving from church to church until she moved to Lockney, TX., where she met and married Durrel Fortenberry.

They moved to Cedar Hill Community where she became a farmer’s wife and mother to four boys. After a divorce, she moved to Floydada where she started teaching Special Education. In 1972, Marisa moved the boys to Canyon, TX., and enrolled at West Texas State University to begin her own education. She was later employed by Upjohn Healthcare and Moore Business Products in Amarillo, TX., and became very active as the President of Parents Without Partners in the Amarillo chapter.

In the mid 80’s, Marisa had complications with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Over the years she had over 14 various surgeries and complications which hindered her mobility. She had always been an avid reader and loved to crochet and cross stitch having made blankets for all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren when they were born. She had a very green thumb and gardening was a passion for her. She always had the keen ability to remember details of past history and family even up until her passing. Marisa loved her family and friends from Floydada, Amarillo and The Plaza of Lubbock where she was able to call home for the last 3 ½ years. Prior to her move to Lubbock, TX., she was living in Floydada and was a member of Trinity Assembly of God Church.

Marisa was preceded in death by her parents, her stepmother, Pearle Sparks and a grandson, Eric Fortenberry. She is survived by her four sons, Donnie (Carla), Michael (Juany), Bryan (Juanita) and John (Melanie) Fortenberry; 10 grandchildren, Chad (Miranda) Fortenberry, Lee (Shayla) Fortenberry, Kaycee Fortenberry Brothers, Brian (Tonya) Saenz, Jeremiah Fortenberry, Jeremy (Kimberlie) Rusk, Nicholas Rusk, Michael (Jill) Fortenberry, April (Kevin) McGill and Shawn Thomas; 12 great grandchildren; brother, Timothy (Sue) Sparks and sister, Carolyn (Ted) Gutierrez.

The family wants to especially thank ALL the staff (nurses, administration and assistants) and residents at The Plaza of Lubbock for the love and care they showed toward Marisa for these last years of her life. Not only did they touch her life; but, she was able to make a difference in their lives. The family will forever be moved by the love and emotion which has been expressed daily in these last weeks and days.

In lieu of flowers, please make dontations to Boys Ranch of Amarillo, Children’s Home of Lubbock or Interim Hospice of Lubbock. Online condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com. Arrangements under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Lubbock, TX.