Gary William Fortney

Gary William Fortney, born on November 4, 1949, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed peacefully at home on January 11, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy woven with love and memories, cherished by his beloved family and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Harold Fortney; mother, Mary Fortney; daughter Jessica Fortney; former wife and mother of his children, Freda Ball

Gary's spirit lives on through his daughter, Nena Fortney; his sons, Patrick and Noah Fortney; his daughter, Macey Fortney; and his beloved grandchildren, Juniper, Daniel, and Fulton Fortney. He is also remembered fondly by his daughter-in-law, Brittany Fortney; his brother, Kevin Fortney; brothers, Murray and Roderick Fortney; his brothers-in-law, Riley Ball and Gene Munyan; sister-in-law, Melissa Ball-McCarter; and his niece, Regina Hawkins. His friends, Brenda Monday Vinokurov and Marilyn Cernaz.

A proud veteran of the Marines, Gary embodied the values of courage and service, alongside his deep-seated passion for life. Gary carried on the spirit of service and love as many of you came to know him as Santa Claus for over two decades.

He made a profound difference in the lives of many families and took the time to make sure the millions of children he saw at Christmas had a special moment with him. He saved every Christmas list, gift, and drawing every child ever gave him throughout his career.

He was an adventurer at heart, forever drawn to the allure of travel, with a special place in his heart for the enchanting cobblestones streets of Prague, Czech Republic. He relished in his traveling adventures and making friends all around the wold.

A lover of cars and all things travel, he often spent hours discussing the intriguing and beautiful places he loved to visit as well as collecting beautiful cars and his passion for automotive design and antiques.

Gary's passion extended beyond his personal interests; he was devoted to his family, pouring love and energy into their lives. His children will forever carry the warmth of his support and encouragement, while the laughter and joy he brought to family gatherings will echo in their hearts. He had an innate ability to help others, always lending a hand or offering a word of kindness to those in need.

In remembrance, Gary will be laid to rest at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920 at 12:30 pm on February 10, 2026.

Family and friends will gather to honor a life beautifully lived. His journey may have concluded, but his spirit and the cherished moments shared will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.