1SG (Ret) Larry Marvin Fortner

Larry Marvin Fortner, son of the late Marvin H. Fortner and Wanda Lee (Gee) Fortner, was born on December 29, 1950, in Aurora, Missouri. He spent his formative years growing up in Aurora, where he attended Aurora High School. Larry proudly entered the United States Army, dedicating his life to serving his country until his retirement. Rising to the rank of First Sergeant, Larry distinguished himself through his dedication and valor, earning numerous awards and commendations. Among his many honors were the National Defense Service Medal (two awards), Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal (two awards), Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (seven awards), Overseas Service Ribbon (three awards), Vietnam Service Medal (three awards), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry (Unit), Expert Qualification Badge for the M-16 Rifle, Expert Qualification Badge for Hand Grenade, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (three awards), and the Southwest Asia Service Medal. On September 26, 1985, Larry was united in marriage to Carol Joann Baker. They shared several years together before Carol preceded him in death in 1991. Upon his retirement from the military, Larry was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Choosing to remain in the area, he continued his service to the nation as a civil service employee on the military installation for four years before retiring and relocating to Texas. Larry had a passion for fishing and delighted in sharing stories of his fishing adventures with anyone who would listen. He also enjoyed playing the lottery, gambling, and was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs football team. Larry passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 74. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Larry leaves behind his four children: Shane Fortner of Kenner, Louisiana; Thad Fortner of Kansas City, Missouri; Eric Fortner (Kristal) of Nashville, Tennessee; and Jerod Fortner (Sybil) of Ava, Missouri. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren—Tristan, Kaylee (Brock), Cassi, Seth, Hannah, Theo, Jack, Cade, Lila, Abby, Kendall, Owen, and Max—and three great-grandchildren: Zachariah, Kash, and Saylor. Larry is survived by his brother, Roger Fortner of Biloxi, Mississippi, along with several other relatives and friends. Although Larry is no longer with us, his unwavering commitment to his country and the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025, in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Burial with military honors will follow in the Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery of Waynesville, MO. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025, in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Larry Fortner and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

1SG (Ret) Larry Marvin Fortner

December 29, 1950 - September 10, 2025