Jimmy Fortenberry

Jimmy Wayne Fortenberry of Willow Park, Texas, formerly of Lubbock, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the age of 75. He was born April 17, 1949 in Lubbock to Charles and Alice Jo (Fain) Fortenberry. Jimmy graduated from Lubbock High School in 1968 and went on to attend South Plains College. Jim owned several restaurants over the years, most notably Little Darlin’ and J&J Bar-B-Que. Jimmy was also a talented carpenter having worked for Betenbough Homes for many years. His greatest hobby/passion was feeding others. He donated time serving Adult Teen Challenge of North Texas, A Place for Grace Children’s Home, and volunteering to serve and cook for a local church community event. Jim was a member of Willow Park Baptist Church. 

Jim received the gift of life in the form of a heart transplant on August 14, 2012. God was not done with Jim’s work on earth just yet. His life began again. He was able to go back to work, travel, woodworking and breakfast with the other retirees at the local Whataburger every morning. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Mandi Fortenberry of Lubbock; grandchildren, Quade, Preslee, Raelee, and Kyson, all of Lubbock; sister, Rhonda Zara and husband Todd of Willow Park; nephew, Joshua Zara and nieces, Ashley Zara and wife Allyson, and Lindsey Zara; great nephews, Everett Zara and Owen Zara; and nephews, Cory and Brandon Fortenberry of Ithaca, New York.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Delton Fortenberry, all of Lubbock. 

Memorial services officiated by Pastor Tom Lakey of First Assembly Church are scheduled for 11:00 am Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Combest Family Memorial Chapel. Inurnment will follow at 2:00 pm at the City of Levelland Cemetery.