David Alvin Fortney

David "Dave" Alvin Fortney, age 66, of Conway, North Carolina, passed away on February 2, 2026, at ECU Health Roanoke-Chowan Hospital. Born on July 5, 1959, in Canton, Ohio, Dave was the beloved son of the late William David Fortney and Mary Iva McKinney Fortney.

Throughout his life, Dave worked diligently as a millwright, dedicating his skills and passion to his trade. Outside of work, he was a man who embraced the joys of life with fervor and an adventurous spirit. An avid outdoorsman, Dave found happiness in hunting, fishing, and exploring nature's beauty. He had a deep love for riding his Harley motorcycle and shared many memorable rides with his son Cody. Dave treasured the little things; especially early morning coffee dates talking on the phone with his girls, Heather and Rosemary.

Family was the cornerstone of Dave's life. He cherished every moment spent with his beloved grandchildren and relished in adventures with his family, especially riding their four-wheelers and side-by-sides. His caring nature extended to his wife, Debbie, with whom he shared precious times at the beach and the simple pleasure of riding around and scratching lottery tickets. In this time of loss, may we remember Dave for the warm-hearted, adventurous spirit that he was, and may his memory continue to bring joy and comfort to those who knew him.

Dave is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie, his children, Heather Guin and her husband Juan of Lovettsville, VA, Rosemary Miller and her husband Shea of Clayton, NC, and Cody Fortney and his girlfriend Kaitlyn of Conway, NC. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren, Emily, Ava, Jaxon, Layla, Grayson, Owen, and Colton. Dave is also mourned by his sisters, Diana Gotschall of Carrollton, Ohio, and Shirley Smith (Darwin) of Louisville, Ohio, along with numerous extended family and dear friends.

A celebration of Dave's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Rich Square, North Carolina. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Those wishing to offer condolences or share memories can do so online at www.garrettsykesfs.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Rich Square, NC.