Richard Louis Fortson

Richard Louis (Rick) Fortson,78, a long-time resident of Fayetteville, NC, left this world on September 19, 2023, in the presence of family at Transitions Life Care in Raleigh, NC. He passed away due to complications related to a neck fracture. Rick was born in Chattanooga, TN, on February 15, 1945, to Catherine (DeArmond) Fortson and Louis George Fortson. He was raised in Chattanooga where he met the love of his life and wife of 51 years, Barbara (Hicks) Fortson. Growing up, Rick spent summers in Hamlet, NC. In the 1970’s, he moved his family to Fayetteville where many generations of his father’s family had lived. He is survived by his sister Judith Greene (Riegelwood, NC), brother-in-law Richard Greene, daughters Kim Meymandi (Raleigh, NC) and Cindy Donovan (Clifton, VA), son Richard (Chip) Fortson (Ridgefield, CT), sons-in-law Spencer Meymandi and Eric Donovan, daughter-in-law Nicole Fortson, granddaughter Maggie Meymandi, and grandsons Vincent Meymandi, Drew Fortson, Colin Fortson, Gus Meymandi, Matthew Fortson, Mason Donovan and Oliver Donovan. He is predeceased by his wife and parents.

Rick was a devoted husband, proud father and caring grandfather. His own father passed when Rick was young and Rick strove to be a positive influence in his children’s lives, even if he was operating without a template. He and Barbara did everything to ensure the best for their children and grandchildren. Rick worked as a contractor for many years and was known for his exacting standards. He built the house that he called home for the last 38 years and volunteered his talents for Habitat for Humanity. Throughout his life, he was an early adopter of technology. Rick loved all things Apple (He bought his first Apple product, an Apple II personal computer, in 1977.). In addition to following politics closely, Rick spoiled and adored his many dogs. When his children made their own homes, Pop-Pop could always be counted on to help with moves, treat the grandchildren and fix most things in or on the house. He made the best Sunday breakfasts which seamlessly brought together his greatest loves, Family and the Church.

He was a long-time parishioner of Saint Patrick Church and was active across the Parish’s councils, committees and ministries. In addition to leading the Building and Grounds Committee for years, he led the building of the 3 bay garage, the storage room and the Knights of Columbus meeting room on the Kennedy Social Hall. He also led the set up and conversion of the gym to a worship space. He provided instrumental consultancy for the new church and was involved with the repairs and up keep of the rectory and school. Rick’s strong faith, dedication to the Catholic Church and devotion to his family guided him through much of his adult life. His spirit was strong and fiercely independent, even in his final days.

Rick’s family will celebrate him on November 10, 2023 with a funeral Mass at 11am in Saint Patrick Catholic Church, Fayetteville, NC. Visitation is scheduled for 10am in the Holy Family Room with committal and reception immediately following the funeral Mass. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Rick’s memory to the Saint Patrick Church Building Fund (2844 Village Drive Fayetteville, NC 28304).