Photo courtesy of Owens and Brumley Funeral Home - Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls, Texas
Oct 30, 1954 – Jan 31, 2023
Jean Ann Fortner, 68, of Wichita Falls passed away after a long battle with cancer on Tuesday, January 31, 2023.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at Central Baptist Church in Burkburnett, Texas with Rev. Doug Burton, officiating. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Wichita Falls under the direction of Owens and Brumley Funeral Home of Wichita Falls.
Jean Ann was born on October 30, 1954 to Melvin B. and Billie (Johnson) Bonnenberger Epps in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She graduated from Putnam City High School and furthered her education at the University of Oklahoma, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree. Later she enrolled in Midwestern State University and received her Master’s Degree in Music. After teaching music for a short period, Jean Ann worked at a law firm, Sherril, Cosnoe and Goff for 44 years. Also, she worked as a property manager, managing about 28 properties.
Jean Ann met Gary Fortner and the couple married and spent many wonderful years together.
Using her music background, Jean Ann played the trumpet at Faith Baptist Church in Wichita Falls and later at Central Baptist Church in Burkburnett, Texas. Also, she was the trumpeter for American Legion Post 202 Honor Guard playing at numerous veteran’s funerals and at the Memorial Day celebrations. Jean Ann enjoyed fishing, motorcycling, and most of all spending time with her grandchildren. Jean Ann had a life well lived and will be missed by many family and friends.
Jean was preceded in death by her father, Melvin B. Bonnenberger; and step-father, Ernie Epps.
She is survived by her husband, Gary Fortner; mother, Billie Epps; son, Justin Chasteen and wife, Jessica; step-son, Patrick Fortner and wife, Carrie; and grandchildren: Ryan, Kaeden, Aubrey, Emma, Donald Joseph and Daniel.
The family suggests memorials may be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls 4909 Johnson Rd, Wichita Falls, Texas or American Legion Post 202 1101 E. Scott, Wichita Falls, Texas 76301.
Read MoreI took trumpet lessons from Jean in Norman, Oklahoma when I was in junior high. She was the best teacher I ever had. Every time I drive by Holmberg Hall at OU I think of her, as that's where we had my lessons. She taught me so much about music that I still use and pass down to my grandson who is learning music. I am so grateful that our paths crossed. Thank you Jean!!!!
Greg Bowlan
December 14, 2024 | Norman, OK | Student
My deepest condolences to Jean Ann’s family. She was a wonderfully classic lady who truly loved her music and life to the fullest measure. Fond memories of her will always prevail as a friend, fellow trumpeter, and member of the Pride. She will be sorely missed.
Lee Mosley
February 09, 2023 | Omaha, NE | Friend
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Gary, Ted and I are so sorry for the loss of your wife. She will be so missed by all that knew her and loved her. Cherish her memories and may you find comfort in them. Sending love and hugs to you and all your family at this most difficult time. TED and Inez Foster
TED and INEZ Foster
February 07, 2023 | Wichita Falls, TX | Friend
What an amazing lady ! I am so honored she called me her friend . Jean Ann was a warrior! I will never forget our rides with the American Legion Post 202 . I will hold all these memories close to my heart. Until I see u again Jean Ann. Love you!
Cindy Bragg
February 06, 2023 | Wichita Falls, TX | Friend
I was sad to learn of Jean Ann's death. I first met Jean Ann when I hired her to be my administrative legal assistant-she was just out out of school as a music student. While Jean Ann did not have a lot of background in the business world (and music was obviously her first love), she did have a great attitude and a determination to succeed that I thought were make her a successful assistant. And I was so right-not only was she an outstanding assistant for me but also for many, many year...
John Prothro
February 06, 2023 | Fort Worth, TX | Friend
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss.
Royce and Vista Ingram
February 05, 2023 | Wichita Falls, TX | Friend
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Gary, as well as Jean Ann's family and friends. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
Judy Winaski
February 03, 2023 | Fort Worth, TX | Family
My prayers go out to Billie, Justin, Gary and all the family. Jean Ann was certainly a warrior and left us way too soon.
Dorcas Chasteen
February 02, 2023 | WICHITA FALLS, TX | Friend
Members of Scotland-Windthorst Memorial VFW Post 2676 and Auxiliary send our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of Jean Ann. She was a wonderful person and her playing of TAPS at our Memorial Day ceremonies was truly inspirational and an invaluable part of our ceremony. She will be missed.
David Teichman
February 02, 2023 | Wichita Falls, TX, TX | Friend
