Wayne Fortner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Wayne Fortner, who departed from this world and entered the presence of Jesus on December 8, 2023.

Wayne was born on September 1, 1959, to Stuart and Cathren Fortner in Bristol, TN. His life was marked by love for God and others, quiet humility, kindness, and sacrificial service. He greatly blessed those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Family was central to Wayne's life. He was a devoted husband to Karen for 30 years, a loving father to Brad and Tyler, and a beloved "Papaw" / "Paw" to his grandchildren.

He enjoyed going on adventures with his wife, watching his grandchildren play sports, participating in church staff activities, telling "Dad jokes," and hosting his sons' friends when they were growing up.

Wayne served with excellence in a variety of roles, but he was particularly passionate about church ministry. He began leading youth ministry and worship in 1975, he sang with the Master's Quartet, and he served as minister of music in several area churches-most recently and for the past 12 years at Temple Baptist Church in Kingsport, TN.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Karen; sons, Brad (wife: Tammy) and Tyler (wife: Whitney); grandchildren, Caleb, James, Liam, Phoebe, Marie, and Max; brothers, Edwin (wife: Donna) and Tom (wife: Judy); sister, Kathy Seymore; and several nieces and nephews.

A ceremony to celebrate Wayne's life will be held on Wednesday, December 13, at 7pm at Temple Baptist Church (2200 Memorial Court, Kingsport, TN 37664). The family will receive friends prior to the service from 5-7pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Camp Rhino, an organization close to Wayne and Karen's hearts.

Camp Rhino C/O
Vision Baptist Missions, Inc.
P.O. Box 647
Dawsonville, GA 30534

As we grieve the loss of Wayne, let us also praise God for the faithful life he lived and the significant impact he had on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." - 2 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV

This obituary is lovingly written by the Fortner family. Trinity Memorial Centers (423-723-8177) is honored to serve them.