David B. Fortner, 71, of De Soto died Sept. 16, 2025, at his home. Mr. Fortner retired from the Chrysler Automobile Manufacturing Plant in Fenton, having worked for 30 years. He took his retirement very seriously; he enjoyed watching Alabama football and the St. Louis Blues and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of the First Free Will Baptist Church of De Soto for more than 30 years. Born May 21, 1954, in Birmingham, Ala., he was the son of the late John Fortner and Lillie (Perkins) Moore. He was the stepson of the late Raymond Moore.
He is survived by five children: Clarissa Melton of Clarksville, Ark., Colton (Jessica) Fortner of De Soto, Madison (Daniel Gonzales) Fortner of Cadet, Chase Fortner of Cadet and Kaleb (Barb) Parker of O’Fallon; 10 grandchildren: Aspyn, Paisley, Olivia, Lincoln, Lilly, Selena, Silas, Estella, Mateo and Lexi; two siblings: Ann Stepp of Camden, Tenn., and Joe Fortner of Savannah, Ga.; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by three brothers: John Wayne, Bob and Sam Fortner; and two sisters: Linda Broodhead and Joyce Odom.
Visitation is scheduled from 10 a.m. until a funeral service at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at First Free Will Baptist Church, 1401 S. 5th St., De Soto, officiated by Brother Bob Thebeau. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in De Soto. Arrangements are under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home in De Soto.