Mr. Charlie Lawrence Fortson "Chuck" passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at the age of 80. He was born on February 10, 1944 to the late Sam Clark and Mary Louise Fortson in Upatoi, Ga.

On August 7, 2024, Charlie Fortson died at 80 years old. Charlie was born on February 10, 1944 in Upatoi, Georgia. Charlie graduated from William H. Spencer High School in 1962 and attended Columbus College. Charlie was a U.S. Army Veteran. After his military service, he joined the Columbus Police Department. He was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church in Upatoi. Charlie operated the first black owned bonding company in Columbus, Georgia. Charlie is survived by his wife, Dorothy Fortson; his daughter, Tamala Smith (Shaunn), his son, Nicholas Fortson and his grandchildren, Hunter and Logan Smith; his sisters, Nadine Jackson, Sarah Gilbert, Maxine Gilbert, Callie Heath, Mary Chappell (Willie), Rose Elder, Annie D. Clark, Shirley Bell, and Darlene Clark; his brothers, L.J Clark, Dolcater Clark, and John Clark; and a host of nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Sam Clark, Sr. and Mary Louise Fortson, Charlie was preceded in death by his son Donnie Pierson, his brother-in-law George Jackson, his brothers, Joe L. Clark and Sam Clark, Jr.

Mr. Fortson will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell, AL on Friday, August 16, 2024 after a 10:30 AM Homegoing Celebration in the Chapel of Progressive Funeral Home, Inc. officiated by Rev. F.R. Smith. Service will be live-streamed. (See clickable link below)

Visitation is 2:00 till 5:00 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Online condolences and guest book signing may be made at progressivefuneralhome.com.

The Progressive Staff is privileged to serve the Fortson Family.