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Author: chastain
90

Jan Cheryl FortnerPassing: April 15, 2020

Service:

To be Announced

Family Service

Visitation:

Private Visitation

Cemetery:

Cresthaven Memory Gardens

Saturday, April 18th

BEDFORD – Jan Cheryl Fortner, 66, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at her residence after a lengthy hard-fought battle with colorectal cancer.

Born October 14, 1953, in Bedford, she was the daughter of Elmer “Tony” and Evelyn “Maxine” (Blackerby) Worley.  She married Jerry Dean Fortner February 24, 1978.

Jan retired as office manager for Dr. Danny Hall with 32 years of service.  She was a member of the Bride of Christ Fellowship.   Jan graduated from Mitchell High School in 1971 and enjoyed lunches with her high school friends. Jan was very kind, humble, nurturing, and genuine soul to everyone.    She was very graceful up to the time of passing. She devoted her life to caring for people she loved.  She was extremely close to members of the Fortner family, and continued the Worley Family tradition of quilting. She enjoyed a beautiful lawn, flowers, and gardening.  She loved being called, “Aunt” Jan.

Surviving:
husband,
Jerry Fortner of Bedford
daughter,
Stephanie (Steven) Sipes of Mitchell
sisters,
Rhonda (Tom) Harrell of Lexington, Kentucky
Wynola “Odie” (Verl) Taylor of Bedford
Deb DeLong of Jacksonville, Florida
Chieta (Dale) Rightley of Ellettsville
several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles
our extended family,
Lindsey and Gavin Steele
Laney, Linkyn, and Truman

Her parents; brother-in-law, Pete Tardiff; and parents-in-law, John and Blanche Fortner, preceded her in death.

A family service will be Saturday, April 18, with Brother Jerry Allen officiating. Burial will be in Cresthaven Memory Gardens.

Memorial Gifts:  Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services

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90 Guest Comments

  1. Guest: Larry Case | Sarasota, Fl.
    Date: June 18, 2020
    Sorry for your loss.
  2. Guest: Joanne Johnson | OOLITIC IN
    Date: April 23, 2020
    Saw Jan back in December at Dr Hall's. Was so glad to see her. She was such a sweet person. Was so sorry 2 hear she had been sick. What a beautiful person, inside & out. Always smiling & sweet. Sending you hugs, Stephanie & Odie. Praying that God will give each of you His peace. Wont be long before we see Jan's pretty eyes & smile again.
  3. Guest: Julie (Nash) Lowe | Columbus
    Date: April 22, 2020
    I am so sorry for your loss, Stephanie, Steve and family. I want to share something I that my Aunt Mary said when I was in high school about the "Worley girls". When the topic came up about Greg's friend Steve or my high school boyfriend, Mary would always say, She is one of those Worley girls, very pretty and good girls. Our deepest condolences, the Lowe's.
  4. Guest: Judy and Roger VanMeter | Morgan Texas
    Date: April 21, 2020
    Jerry we are so sorry to hear of jan’s passing. Take care and know Jan is at peace.
  5. Guest: Lisa Buck Tincher | Orleans, IN
    Date: April 20, 2020
    So very sorry for your loss. Always with the smile. . .
  6. Guest: Mike May | Nashville, TN
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Love you so much and will miss you more. Every time Jerry and I go fishing we will think of you. You always caught the biggest fish!! Love you and so sorry for the loss to your family. Jerry will be up to see you soon. Love you
  7. Guest: Penny connerley wicks | cooper, Texas
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Odie, I am so sorry to hear this about your sister, My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family. I never met her I don't think but I know you are all family to me. Just know I am thinking of you. Penny
  8. Guest: Bill & Marianne Luttrell | Mitchell, Indiana
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Sorry Jerry, Jan was a real sweet person
  9. Guest: Darren and Jessica Fortner | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Beautiful inside and out. If you were lucky enough to spend any time with Jan you always left feeling better about life. Truly a very special lady. Heaven has gained an angel.
  10. Guest: Susie Reynolds | Butlerville
    Date: April 18, 2020
    I love you Jan !!!
  11. Guest: Marilyn Blanton-Johnson | Mitchell In.
    Date: April 18, 2020
    I am so sorry to hear of Jan passing . She was a very beautiful girl and a beautiful woman . I will always remember our classmate with a beautiful smile and a friend to all . Prayers for her family and friends R.I.P. my friend !!!
  12. Guest: Dolores Mundy | Bedford IN
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Graydon and Barb wanted to send you a message. For my friend Jerry: our thoughts and prayers are with you.
  13. Guest: Brent Steele | Bedford
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Jerry and Stephanie, Sally and I were saddened to learn of Jan's passing but she is with the Lord and has touched him and talked to him and looked upon his face. She is beyond the pains and troubles of this earth. She is as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside and that beauty shines on in Heaven. The two of you were so loving and kind to Gavin and Lindsay and especially Laney. You enriched their lives and the two of you spread you love to them so much. Keep your chin up and know that God is in control. Love Brent & Sally
  14. Guest: Al & Janet Magee | New Castle, IN
    Date: April 18, 2020
    We are sorry for your loss. God bless you.
  15. Guest: Trish Barlow | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 18, 2020
    Our deepest condolences to you all. Stephanie we love you and our deepest prayers for you today. Know we would be there if we could love you!
  16. Guest: Mike & Cynthia Sullivan | Wellington, Colorado
    Date: April 18, 2020
    So sorry to hear of Jan's passing. Cynthia and I will keep you in our prayers.
  17. Guest: Andra L Jackson | Bedford
    Date: April 18, 2020
    I remember Jan from Dr. Hall's office. She was always so nice. She was always smiling. She was polite and so kind. So sorry for your loss Lindsay and Gavin Steele and family.
  18. Guest: Mike & Becky Roberts | salem, Indiana
    Date: April 17, 2020
    So very sorry for your loss, Jan will be missed by her Family and all who knew her, She always had a beautiful smile and always a very pretty girl growing up. The Family will always have special memories of Jan, she's now Gods Gift to heaven with her Mother & Dad, God Bless all the Family ...Mike & Becky (Blackerby) Roberts
  19. Guest: Darlene and Dan Parker | Bedford, Indiana
    Date: April 17, 2020
    Jan was a lovely person with a sweet spirit. I was glad to have had opportunity to talk with her over the last few months. Prayers for family in days ahead. God be with all.
  20. Guest: Lisa Klein Sacco | Mooresville, North Carolina.
    Date: April 17, 2020
    My deepest condolences to all of the Fortner family and Jan’s sisters plus her extended family. Jan was a beauty both inside and out. I’m so saddened and shocked to hear of her passing. Lovely , lovely person. To Stephanie, her sweet daughter .....thinking of you during your sadness. Love and prayers to all. Lisa
  21. Guest: Wayne and Teresa Manion | Bedford, In 47421
    Date: April 17, 2020
    Much love and prayers to her family and friends. I know how much she will be missed. Memories of her kindness and that beautiful smile.
  22. Guest: Greg Isom | Mitchell IN
    Date: April 17, 2020
    So sorry to the family as this is a tremendous loss for all of us. She was a beautiful lady on the outside but even more so on the inside. I was so blessed to be able to share an "eternal moment" with her, Jerry and Stephanie at their baptism. I look forward to seeing her again in heaven. Thoughts and prayers be with you all from your church family. May God comfort you as only He can.
  23. Guest: Jan Kirton- | Bronson, fl
    Date: April 17, 2020
    Sad for you in your loss
  24. Guest: Cathy Price | Mitchell, In
    Date: April 17, 2020
    I am so sorry for your loss and wish I could be there. Jan always had a bright smile for everyone....she took time to greet Kaius on Sundays. She will be missed.
  25. Guest: Kathy and Bill Jones | Mitchell IN
    Date: April 17, 2020
    So sorry for your loss. Jan was a wonderful, sweet person. I know my brother, Danny Hall, certainly appreciated her! 🙏❤
  26. Guest: John B Hanner | bedford
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I remeber going to school with Jan at mitchell high school.My condolence to family,
  27. Guest: Gwen Norman | Bedford, Indiana so sorry for the
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Thoughts and prayers for a wonderful family So sad for the loss of such a precious Lady
  28. Guest: Janie Anderson | Bedford
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I’m so sorry to hear this!! I remember her well from Dr Hall’s office. Such a classy and beautiful woman.
  29. Guest: Dena Tolbert Fortner | Bloomington, IN 47401
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jan was the sweetest, nicest person person... and bravest. Somehow I always thought she would beat this — nobody tried harder. She was one of a kind, and she will be missed. It breaks my heart. ❤ 😢
  30. Guest: JILL DECKARD | Bedford
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Stephanie, You have my heart and support through this difficult time. My deepest sympathies for all of you. I'm so very sorry.
  31. Guest: Pastor Bob and Linda Courson | Bedford ind
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Bob and I met Jan at dr halls. She was a beautiful sweet lady Always smiling and pleasant. I didn’t know she’d retired and saw her out one day. She said she had health issues and retired. I missed seeing her at the office. She was a very lovely person. I believe her in-laws we’re friends and maybe relatives of my father and grandparents. Tyree’s. My dad always spoke of Blanche. Jan will be an asset to heaven. A light shining brightly. Sorry for our loss. But heavens gain.
  32. Guest: William Leonard | Orleans Indiana
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I am deeply sorry for your loss. Jan was always a Sweetheart with a smile that could light up a room. To Odie and Debbie My heart goes out to your family!
  33. Guest: Debbie & Randy Beeler | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jerry and Stephanie, we are so sorry to learn of Jan's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Debbie and Randy
  34. Guest: Joyce Bynum | BLOOMINGTON, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I am so sorry for your loss. She was such a beautiful person!
  35. Guest: Mike and Carla Jeskewich | Bedford INDIANA
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jerry and family, So sorry for your loss. She will be missed by friends and family.
  36. Guest: Carolyn Terry | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I'm so very sorry to hear of Jan's passing. Prayers for the family at this very difficult time.
  37. Guest: Sophia Frazier | Heltonville
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I remember Jan from meeting her years ago. She was a nice person. I was sorry to hear of her passing.
  38. Guest: Debbie (Fortner ) Clock | Mitchell, IN 47446
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I am so sorry to hear of Jan’s passing. I went to school with her. She was beautiful inside and out. Always kind and thoughtful to everyone and always a smile. My heartfelt sympathies to her family and prayers.
  39. Guest: Terri Briscoe | Bedford, In
    Date: April 16, 2020
    My heart breaks for each of you. She was a beautiful lady inside & out, wonderful to all. She had a beautiful smile that made you feel welcome. My love, hugs & prayers to each of you. May God give you strength as He has given you sweet memories of a wonderful of such a tremendous lady.
  40. Guest: Nancy Rainey | Bedford, In
    Date: April 16, 2020
    So sorry to hear of Jan's passing. My condolences to Jerry and Stephanie Nancy Rainey
  41. Guest: Brenda Mckain | brownstown, ind
    Date: April 16, 2020
    ALL VOLUNTEERS OF LAWRENCE COUNTY CANCER PATIENT SERVICES ARE ALL SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
  42. Guest: Joann P Teresi | Deerfield Beach
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Dear Debbie, So sorry to see you lost your sister, I think of you and remember our good times at Crane. I'm in Deerfield Beach now and think maybe one day we could meet and reminisce. Hope you are well. My sympathy to you at this time. I lost my only brother in 2017 and 5 weeks later I lost my husband. Rough time for me. All my best wishes to you and your family. Joann Phipps Teresi
  43. Guest: Cynda Jackson Maynard | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I am so sorry to hear of Jan's passing. I worked with her at Dr. Hall's when Stephanie was young. (1979 to 1984). She will be missed.
  44. Guest: Pat Atkinson | Orleans, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    A dear friend and classmate who lived in quiet grace. My forever memory of Jan will be that bright smile, soft voice and the sparkle in her eyes. A beautiful soul gone much too soon. Deepest sympathies to Steph, Jerry and the entire family. Patti A
  45. Guest: Cindy Beeler Miller | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jerry, Stephanie and family, we are so sorry to hear of Jan’s passing. She was the most kind person and always had a beautiful smile. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this so difficult time.
  46. Guest: Grace Pemberton | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    To Jerry and all of Jan's family... we are so sad for your loss. Jan is such a beautiful and precious child of God in Christ. She will be sorely missed... til we see her again and praise our God together in heavenly places!
  47. Guest: Tammy Sallade | New Palestine
    Date: April 16, 2020
    So sorry to hear about your loss Stephanie. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
  48. Guest: Suzie Batchelor Leatherman | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    So very sorry to read of Jan's passing. She was a beautiful person inside and out. May all your precious times and memories give you all peace and comfort in the coming days. Deb, Odie love and prayers to you and all the family.
  49. Guest: Larry Williams | Bedford, In.
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jerry:: Sorry for your loss. Larry & Sara
  50. Guest: Vicki King Lovelace | Rochester Hills, Mi 48309
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Debbie, I was so sorry to hear about Jan's passing. She was always so sweet, and a beautiful person. I have thought alot about the both of you over the years. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
  51. Guest: Gary and Carla Hamilton | Bedford
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Odie and family, We are so very sorry to hear of Jan’s passing. She was truly a beautiful person inside and out. May your many wonderful memories of your time shared with Jan bring you comfort in the days ahead.
  52. Guest: Greg and Becky Taylor | Mitchell
    Date: April 16, 2020
    So sorry to hear about this. We will keep all the family in our prayers
  53. Guest: Korina Dusard | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    What a beautiful soul! No one left her presence without feeling loved. Such a deep and wounding loss for all who knew and loved her.
  54. Guest: Judi Tanksley Taylor | Mitchell Indiana
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I am so sorry to hear this .She was a wonderful sweet lady. Always beautiful and caring. Praying for you all.
  55. Guest: Kim Hall | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    There are no words to describe how valuable Jan was in her 32 years with us. She was one beautiful person! I hope all of you know how much Danny and I love Jan and we are both praying for all of you. She will surely be missed. Stephanie , she was so very proud of you and you were her world as Im sure she was yours as well. I am so very sorry.
  56. Guest: Diana Friedman | Jasper, Indiana
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Stephanie my heart aches for you. Jan was a beautiful lady inside and out. I enjoyed our visits and talks. Jan was always so positive and upbeat ❤ I will miss her dearly. Hugs and prayers to you and Jerry.
  57. Guest: Rhonda Super | Bedford in 47421
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Thoughts and prayers for the family...Jan was such a sweet, kind person. 💙💙💙
  58. Guest: Pat Rasnic | Indianapolis, IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Thoughts and prayers with the families!
  59. Guest: Dolores Mundy | Bedford IN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Jerry so sad to hear the love of your life had passed. Gordon and I want to send prayers for you and your family. Sincerely, Gordon and Dolores
  60. Guest: Bobby Brown | Venice Florida
    Date: April 16, 2020
    I’m very sorry for your loss Stephanie. It’s so very painful losing your mother, please remember she was so very proud of you.
  61. Guest: Teresa (Dykes) Streeval | Bedford, iN
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Stephanie I am so sorry for your loss.. prayers to you and your family 🙏
  62. Guest: Belinda Lindsey Sutton | Henderson, KY
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Very sorry for your loss. Prayers with all the family. Sincerely, Belinda
  63. Guest: Roxane kerr | Paragon indiana
    Date: April 16, 2020
    Our deepest sympathy to all of Aunt Jan's family... Jan was one of a kind.....and her Cherry Delight was a big hit at every family gathering....kind sensitive and giving to all she met....rest in peace my friend
  64. Guest: Bill Kittle | Dripping Springs Texas
    Date: April 15, 2020
    I knew Jan in junior high and high school. After graduation our class moved on and I had no idea who went where. The last time I saw Jan was at our class reunion in 2012. She was the same gracious person I called "classmate" so long ago. I am sorry for her loss and regret not seeing her since. My prayers will be offered up for her soul and the family she left behind.
  65. Guest: John & Helen Hardman | Bloomington, Indiana
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Chieta, So sorry for your loss. You and the rest of your family are in our prayers!
  66. Guest: Randy and Terry Roberts | Heltonville, In
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Prayers for you all. She was always a ray of sunshine when I went to Dr. Halls office. Sorry for your loss.
  67. Guest: Sissy Terry Sproles | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    So sad to read this. We had a lot of fun in school back in the day. Gone too soon.
  68. Guest: Tony & Diane Nugent | MITCHELL|IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Stephanie, Your Mom Sure was a Genuine Soul to talk to. I really had a pleasant time talking to her last month. I know I most likely wore her out for the hr or so but I think she enjoyed it like I did. She was telling me how she grew up drinking hot Tea and everything. It sure is amazing when you can just sit down with someone like your Mom and catch up on everything that we both did in our earlier years.( Hot Tea not Pop) .We are sure going to Miss her. I know now she is talking to My Dad and telling him how much I talked her ears off. I am so thankful I got to meet your Mom. Forever In Our Hearts. Love you.
  69. Guest: Dick & Sheila Brown | Summerfield, Florida
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jerry & Family, So sorry for your loss. I know she will be missed big time. Always enjoyed being around her. All will be in our thoughts and prayers. Dick & Sheila Brown
  70. Guest: Mary Pauline Lagle | Mitchell, IN 47446
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Stephanie , Jerry, and Family, So very sorry, Jan was a beautiful person inside and out, so glad that we had a great visit with her and Jerry last fall, our prayers for comfort during this sad time. Gerry and Pauline
  71. Guest: Karin Dobson | Jacksonville, NC.28546
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jerry, so sorry for your loss.Jan was always so nice to me,she will be miss.Love you Karin
  72. Guest: Jody Johnson | Mitchell Indiana
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Stephanie I am so sorry about your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
  73. Guest: Ella Inman | Williams In
    Date: April 15, 2020
    God gained an Angel and we lost a great friend. A beautiful person inside and out. Ella and Dennis
  74. Guest: Dave Torphy | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jan was great friend, and wonderful lady.
  75. Guest: Kristy Brewer Evans | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Stephanie I’m so sorry about your mom. She was the sweetest lady. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
  76. Guest: Helen (Bell ) Sharpe | Mitchell Indiana
    Date: April 15, 2020
    I’m sorry for your loss she was a sweetheart in school my prayers are with the family .. please accept my Condolences at this time of your loss
  77. Guest: Paula Morris Williams | Fairfield Township Ohio
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Condolences to the family lived close to family growing up. God be with you all Paula Williams
  78. Guest: Tess Hall-Laloggia | Bloomimgton IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jan had a beautiful spirit. That smile says it all. Such a kind, beautiful person. She was definitely loved.💙 All of our love and prayers to the family.
  79. Guest: Carolyn Braman Riefe | Saginaw, MI
    Date: April 15, 2020
    I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with the Worley and Fortner families.
  80. Guest: Larry and Francie Leonard | Mitchell, In 47446
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Prayers to the family. Jan was a caring and giving person.
  81. Guest: Carla Kimble Yates | Bedford
    Date: April 15, 2020
    So sorry for your loss. Jan was always a beautiful, kind, and considerate lady.
  82. Guest: Brad and Lee Purlee | Bedford, Indiana
    Date: April 15, 2020
    We are so sorry to hear about your sister’s passing Odie...your family will be in our prayers! ❤
  83. Guest: Jodi Murphy brock | Bloomfield, indiana
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Stephanie I'm so sorry to hear of your mother. She was always so kind and never had a bad word to say. My prayers go out to you and your family that you will get through this!!!
  84. Guest: Andy & Debbie Pemberton | Mitchell, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jan was a treasured member of our church fellowship and will be dearly missed! We will be in prayer for Jerry and the family, looking forward to our reunion in Heaven!
  85. Guest: Mike and Rita Ramey | Bloomington, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    So sorry to hear about Jan. Always had fun in school, we send prayers to Debbie and all the family. Mike and Ri
  86. Guest: MaryJane Peed | Signal Mountain
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jerry, I am in shock. Jan was beautiful, sweet, kind and caring. Please know that thoughts and prayers are with you and that memories will console you throughout the time to come. Wish we could come to Indiana but the virus has seen to that.
  87. Guest: Pam Johnson Pinto | Coatesville IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jan was ALWAYS absolutely beautiful. We went to school together all the way thru high school. My prayers are with the entire family.
  88. Guest: Pat and Mike Farrell | Bedford, IN 47421
    Date: April 15, 2020
    We are so sorry to hear about Jan. She was a wonderful person. We wish we could be with you but the virus had other ideas. Our hearts are with you.
  89. Guest: Sherman Peed | Signal Mountain
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Jerry, so sorry to read of Jan. Sherman
  90. Guest: James W. Diehl | Bedford, IN
    Date: April 15, 2020
    Sorry to hear of Jans passing. She always had a smile to greet you at Dr. Halls office.

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