Charles Kenneth Fortenberry, 86, was born on December 12, 1939, in Seguin, Texas, and passed away peacefully at home on June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
A celebration of Charles’ life was at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home in Woodville, Texas. Officiating was his grandson, Chaplain Joseph U. Fortenberry.
Charles lived a remarkable life defined by service, hard work, adventure, and an endless curiosity about the world around him. He faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for 22 years, dedicating himself to protecting and serving his nation with honor and pride.
On July 7, 1962, Charles married the love of his life, Patricia. Together they built a life filled with love, commitment, and family, raising three sons and creating a legacy that continues through their children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives they touched.
Following his military career, Charles embraced a wide range of professions and experiences. He served as a Tyler County Deputy Sheriff, worked as a commissioning engineer in Algeria, served as a chemist on Johnston Atoll, and worked as a millwright for several different companies throughout his career. No matter where life took him, Charles approached every opportunity with determination, intelligence, and a strong work ethic.
Charles was a man of many talents and interests. He enjoyed making knives and jewelry, mining for gold, and pursuing countless projects and hobbies. He loved learning new things and was never afraid to take on a challenge. His adventurous spirit and craftsmanship were evident in everything he did.
Among his greatest joys was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved playing chess with them, sharing stories from his many adventures, teaching valuable life lessons, and creating memories that will be cherished forever. His wisdom, humor, and steady presence made him a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend
Charles will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his dedication to service, his strong character, and his adventurous spirit. His life was one of purpose, perseverance, and love, and the impact he made on those around him will never be forgotten.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Patricia Yvonne Fortenberry, his son Wesley Charles (Chuck) Fortenberry; parents Wesley R.E. Fortenberry and Callie Fortenberry Crumpler; Brothers Sonny Fortenberry and Chandler Fortenberry; grandson Benjamin Hunter Fortenberry, and grandson-in-law Sean Cody.
He is survived by sons: Shawn Fortenberry and wife Diane, Aaron Fortenberry and wife Amy, Grandchildren: Jennifer Carter and husband Oliver, Jessica Norsworthy and husband Jamie, Hannah Smelik and husband John, Joseph Fortenberry and wife Jessica, Cody Fortenberry and wife Beka, Caleb Fortenberry and wife Emily, Nick Fortenberry and wife Alyssa, Alex Fortenberry, Bo Fortenberry, Grace Fortenberry and a multitude of great grandchildren, family and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Apache Warrior Foundation, 7409 Shady Hollow Ct., North Richland Hills, Texas 76183.
Services are under the direction of Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home in Woodville, Texas.
