Richard "Dick" Fortney

Richard “Dick” Fortney, age 78, of Kingsport, TN, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2024. Born on June 22nd in Ellwood City, PA, to Ray and Bertha Fortney, he lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and a zest for adventure.

Dick began his career as a Draftsman then Sales and Service in the coal industry, where he honed his strong work ethic and commitment to his community. After several years, he transitioned to a new chapter, helping his wife, Phillis, open and operate Rainbows End Florist for 28 years. Their work became a fixture in the Kingsport community, bringing joy and beauty to countless lives.

As a loving father with an adventurous spirit, Dick enjoyed travel and supporting his son Wayne who has a passion for hot air ballooning (even though Dick had a fear of heights)! The thrill of soaring through the skies reflected his love for life, family, and the beauty of the world around him. He and Phillis often traveled and found adventure wherever they went. He often shared his travel adventures and a good joke with his friends, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who knew him.

With his engineering mind he enjoyed brewing his own beer and crafting spirits with his friends. On a regular basis you could find them sampling each other’s spirits and planning the next creation. 

Dick is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob; and niece, Stephanie.

Those left to cherish Dick’s memory are his wife of 58 years, Phillis; their son, Wayne and wife Ann; and his beloved cat, Buddy. He is also remembered by many friends and community members whose lives he touched.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. The funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. with Richard Richter officiating.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024, at East Lawn Memorial Park.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.