James Leroy Fortner

James Leroy Fortner, age 75, a life-long resident of Dahlonega, GA, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2017, with his family by his side he completed his journey home to be with Jesus.

He loved his family and friends with a passion but greatest was his love for Jesus and serving God.  He loved to help and bless people in any way he could and always had such a humble spirit to the voice of God.  He will surely be missed by all.

Leroy was son of the late James Elmer and Mary Lena Grizzle Fortner.  He is also preceded in death by his wife, Myrtle Anne Fortner; aunt, Maude Grizzle; and nephew, Kevin Fortner.

Leroy is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Joey and Cheryl Fortner, Dahlonega, GA; daughters and son-in-law, Melinda and Jack Gilreath, Murrayville, GA, Alicia Bingham, Dahlonega, GA; brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Tammy Fortner, Dahlonega, GA; sisters and brother-in-law, Betty Jackson, Dahlonega, GA, Pauline and Jimmy Brown, Dahlonega, GA; grandchildren, Misty Ellis, Amber Melton, Shane Stephens, Bailey Bingham, Jacob Fortner, Jordan Fortner, Jasmine Fortner, Dwayne Shows, Kayleigh Shows; and 10 great-grandchildren.  Numerous other relatives also survive.

Funeral services for Leroy are scheduled for 2 PM Sunday, March 19, 2017 at the Banister Funeral Home Chapel in Dahlonega, GA.

Pastor Joey Fortner, Pastor Wayne Norris, and Pastor Dwayne Payne will officiate.

Interment will follow in the Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at Banister Funeral Home on Friday, March 17, 2017 from 5 PM to 9 PM, Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 5 PM to 9 PM and again on Sunday, March 19, 2017 from 10 AM until service time.

Online condolences may be made at www.banisterfuneralhome.net.

Banister Funeral Home in Dahlonega, GA is in charge of the arrangements.