Elizabeth Rea Tinnin

Known for her kind, gentle spirit and willingness to serve others, Beth was loved by all who knew her. She was happiest when spending time with family or at church, and she enjoyed singing in the choir, playing bridge and traveling.

Beth was born in Philadelphia, Miss., on January 24, 1927, to Velma and Bryant Rea. In 1939, her family moved to Meridian, where she lived for 52 years. She married Charles Tinnin in 1947, and they had a son, Charles Tinnin. Together they built and operated Tinnin Imports.

While in Meridian, she was an active member of Highland Baptist Church and taught children for 40 years. Upon retirement, she and her husband Charles moved to Jackson and joined First Baptist Church, where she faithfully served in the children’s ministry and choir. In 1994, her husband preceded her in death after 47 years of marriage.

In 1997, Beth married Eldridge Fortenberry, and they moved to Madison. They were married 11 years until his death in 2008.

Beth also was preceded in death by her brothers, Willard Rea and Charlie Rea, and her daughter-in-law, Janet Alexander Tinnin.

She is survived by her son, Charles Tinnin of Ridgeland, and his wife Marilyn; three grandchildren, Ashley Tinnin Frazer (Preston) of Memphis, Jill Tinnin Grogan (Forbes) of Vicksburg, and Natalie Tinnin Lynch (Josh) of Hernando; and seven great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, February 2, at 10:30 a.m. at Magnolia Cemetery in Meridian. Memorials may be sent to Highland Baptist Church in Meridian.