Jean Fortney

Jean E. Fortney, 84, of Harrisburg, went home to be with Jesus Thursday, June 11, 2015, surrounded by her loving family in the Carolyn Croxton Slane Residence, Harrisburg. Born in Harrisburg on July 25, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Mary Sleighter Fox. Jean worked in the credit department of the Osteopathic Community General Hospital, Harrisburg, but spent most of her life as a homemaker and caring for her family. She was a proud 1948 graduate of the former John Harris High School. Jean was a devout member of the Chambers Hill United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday school and volunteering with Vacation Bible school. She was also an Easter egger, took part in the card ministry, and created her own sunshine box ministry putting together care packages for those who needed some cheering up. Jean was a member of the Farm Women, and could always be called upon for her baked goods at events for the Chambers Hill Fire Company; she was also a Girl Scout leader for many years. Even with working and all of her volunteering, Jean always put her family and others first. Jean is survived by her loving husband of nearly 65 years, Richard E. Fortney, Sr., whom she married on July 18, 1950; her loving children, Lynn J. Cassel wife of Timothy of New Cumberland, Kathy J. Davis wife of Wayne of South Carolina, Cindy E. Yarnell wife of Paul “Butch” Yarnell Jr. of Harrisburg, Richard E. Fortney, Jr. husband of Betsy of Harrisburg, and Connie L. Mongold also of Harrisburg; eleven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and another great grandchild soon to be born. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her five siblings. Funeral service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2015, at 11:00 AM in the Chambers Hill United Methodist Church, 6300 Chambers Hill Road, Harrisburg, with The Rev. Nicholas E. Keeney, officiating. Interment will be in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Harrisburg. A viewing will be held in the church on Saturday from 10 AM until time of the services. Trefz & Bowser Funeral Home, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Hummelstown, is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be sent to Chambers Hill United Methodist Church, 6300 Chambers Hill Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111.