Thomas David Fortune (1937 - 2014)

Born 18 Oct 1937 in Gould, Arkansas, United States

Biography

Obituary

Thomas D. Fortune was the eleventh of twelve children, born October 18, 1937 in Gould, Arkansas to Sam and Maudie Fortune Sr. The family later relocated to Oakland, CA where Thomas attended and received his education from Oakland Technical High School, graduating in 1957. It was at Oakland Tech that Thomas met the love of his life Helen Gatison. The two were married in 1957 and were blessed with three wonderful children; Clifford, Cecilia and Cindy. Thomas enlisted into the Air Force where he dutifully served his country. Upon leaving the military he was employed with the City if Berkeley until 1975. Thomas deeply believed in hard work and improving one's self. While working full time during the day he went to school at night so that he could improve himself and the quality of life for his family. Thomas was the quintessential self made man. His work ethic and determination resulted in him building a successful expansive insurance business for New York Life Insurance Company that excelled for many years. Thomas believed that "We can lift ourselves out of ignorance, we can find ourselves as creatures of excellence and intelligence and skill" (Richard Bach's Jonathon Livingston Seagull). Thomas along with his wife Helen instilled strong morals and entrepreneurial spirit, and a protestant work ethic in their children. He enjoyed entertaining family and friends and sharing the best that he had with others. Thomas was an avid golfer and liked to share his talents by teaching youth the fundamental golf skills. Thomas continually encouraged youth to get a good education, to work hard, and to always do their best. Thomas' deep passion for education and the betterment of youth led him to establish a nonprofit which provided scholarships to help youth and Oakland Technical High School to attend college. Thomas's work spirit and drive did not end at retirement. He tirelessly volunteered to help others. He was an advocate for senior citizens, he volunteered with the veterans association, feeding the homeless, and mentoring youth groups in Oakland. Thomas departed this life June 23, 2014. He was proceeded in death by his parents Sam and Maudie Fortune, Sr., Brothers John Henry, Hubert and Wallace Fortune. Sisters: Mary Theresa Bryant, Dorothy May Liggins, Frances Tatmon, Murlene Perry and Birdie Allen. Thomas leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 57 years Helen Fortune, his beloved children Clifford Fortune, Cecelia Howard and husband (Ricky), Cindy Bey and husband (John); grandchildren: Golnaz, Terrell, Akayla, Tatianna, Atiah and Kiarah; brothers Sam Fortune and wife (Arra), Charles Fortune, Billy Fortune and wife (Ruth) of Las Vegas; Life long friend Joe Dupree, and a host of nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. ^[1]

Sources

1. ↑ http://www.fouchesfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Thomas-Fortune-2/#!/Obituary