Bob “Lefty” Fortson, age 95, passed away Friday, August 1, 2025.
He was born on July 27, 1930. Bob was an eight year U.S. Air Force veteran, serving during the Korean conflict. A 1948 graduate of Central High School, he enjoyed playing baseball, softball and golf. In 1985, he won the World Left Handed Golf Senior Tournament. He also won the super senior division of the National Lefthanders Association in 2000 and 2002. He has won the senior part of eight different state Lefty tournaments. Bob enjoyed traveling, having visited all 50 states and over 20 foreign countries. He was a member of the Fellowship Sunday School Class and Christ United Methodist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents, J.T. and Dorothy Fortson; his first wife, Fay Fortson; sister, Emily Fortson; and second wife, Ann Fortson.
Survivors include son, Bobby Fortson; daughter, Brenda (Bryan) Smith; stepdaughter, Carol (Danny) Crye; stepson, Dave (Mary) Lusk; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out in Bob’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tn. 38105.
A visitation for Bob will be Monday, Aug. 4 from noon-2 p.m. at Chattanooga Funeral Home – North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343. The funeral service will follow starting at 2 p.m., with Bryan Dantzler officiating. The family will then proceed to Hamilton Memorial Gardens for the committal.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.