James Lee Fortner was born in Wichita, Kansas, on November 21, 1935, to Charles Virgil Fortner and Cora Fortner. He passed away in Andover, Kansas, on February 7, 2026.

James enjoyed fishing, old-time country music, nature, and sharing stories of his life and family. Most of all, he loved talking about Jesus and the love God has for us.

Jim is survived by his wife, Joyce Fortner of Andover, Kansas; his son, Nathan Fortner (Jessica); his grandchildren, Joshua, Elliot, and Amelia, all of Eudora, Kansas; and his sister, Kathy (Donnie) Harper-Hileman of Fruitland, Idaho.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Cora Fortner; his sister, Mary Ann; his son, Chandler Fortner; and his granddaughter, Eliza Fortner.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 14, at 10:00 a.m. at White Chapel Cemetery.