Virginia Fortson

WINDER – Essie Virginia Fortson, 87, formerly of Athens, died Thursday, July 2, 2009.

Born in Oconee County, she was the daughter of the late Gordon C. and Essie Linda Medlin Skinner. She was of the Christian denomination.

Mrs. Fortson was preceded in death by her husband, Jeptha M. “Jeppy” Fortson.

Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Ronald Wright, Winder; two daughters, Jane Mason, Meadowview, Va., and Joan Hammons, Statham; three grandchildren and spouses, Patrick and Dalena Hutto, Lindsay and Brian Outten and Gordon Conley; four great-grandchildren, Brittany Hutto, Austin Hutto, Kirstin Hutto and Regan Outten; two brothers, Ed Skinner and Sam Skinner, both of Athens; and one sister, Joann Williams, Athens.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, July 5, in Smith Memory Chapel at Smith Funeral Home, Winder. Burial followed in Evergreen Memorial Park, Athens.

Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Mary’s Hospice, 1500 Oglethorpe Avenue, #200C, Athens, Ga. 30606.
Smith Funeral Home, Winder, was in charge of arrangements.