Frank Stephen Fortson

Frank Stephen Fortson III, 71 went to be with his Lord on Oct. 8, 2014.He was born in Elberton June 24, 1943 and he graduated from Elbert County High School in 1961. He attended Erskine College and Florida Community College in Jacksonville, Florida. Frank Served his country proudly in the United States Navy, rising in rank from Seaman Recruit to Lt. Commander, retiring after 22 years of decorated service. His service on seven ships, three destroyers, two repair ships, one tanker and on command flagship took Frank to all corners of the world, including the South China Sea off the coast of Vietnam during the conflict. He also served a three-year tour, accompanied by his family, in Yokosuka, Japan and a two-year tour in Mayport, Florida. Frank was a member of Palms Presbyterian Church where his loving wife and friend, Cathy, plays the organ, and he proudly sang in the choir each Sunday morning at worship service. He leaves behind his beloved extended church family with whom he enjoyed a fulfilling friendship and fellowship each Sunday. One of his most favorite pastimes was to enjoy listening to his beloved wife Cathy’s organ and piano performances. He thought she was absolutely the best. Frank was predeceased by his parents, stepmother Mary Frances and father, Frank S. Fortson, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine Sue Fortson; sisters: Mary Cunningham (Sam) of Columbus, and Joan Rose of San Diego, California; son, John Fortson (Christie) of Van Nuys, California; daughter, Dawn Glisson (Roy) of Palatka, Florida; stepchildren: Vicky Carregal (Keith) of St. Augustine, Florida, and Amy Williams (Alex) of Jacksonville, Florida; six grandchildren which he dearly loved: Steven Glisson, Jarrett Glisson, Abby Fortson, Joshua Fortson, Maddux Carregal, and Keith Carregal Jr.; and many other loving family members and friends. A memorial service was held in Elberton on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. in Elmhurst Cemetery. You may express your condolences to the family online at www.hicksfuneral.com. Hicks Funeral Home of Elberton was honored to care for the family of Mr. Frank Stephen Fortson, III.