Gary Bruce Fortenberry

Gary Bruce Fortenberry was born on December 3, 1948 in Bonham, TX to Alvin and Mary Fortenberry.He was the oldest of 3 brothers and they shared a special bond. Second only to his faith in God and love of family & friends, Gary had an enduring love of sports that would continue throughout his lifetime. After graduating from Mesquite High School in 1967, he earned a Bachelor of Education degree from North Texas University. Later he would go on to earn a Master of Education from East Texas State University. In April of 1974 he met the love of his life, Debbie Thompson, and they married on December 21, 1974 at the First United Methodist Church in Atlanta, TX.He considered the Thompsons his second family and he was close to each of them. Other than one year as a coach and teacher at Rusk, TX, Gary spent his entire career with the Mesquite Independent School District. He was a coach and teacher for 11 years, later serving as assistant principal at North Mesquite High School.He was the principal for McDonald Middle School for 14 years, retiring from Mesquite ISD in 2004, after 32 years of service.After his retirement he enjoyed attending weekly Friday night high school football games with his close friends, traveling with Debbie and spending time with their son, Brad. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 43 years, Debbie; son, Brad Fortenberry of Denton; brother, Tim Fortenberry of Frisco; brother and wife, Kyle & Sherry Fortenberry of Mesquite; father-in-law, Jimmy Thompson of Atlanta; brothers-in-law& sisters-in-law : Jim & Cassie Thompson of Atlanta; Ted Thompson of Green Bay, WI; and Frank & Judy Thompson of Lubbock. Gary was also a proud uncle to 6 nieces and nephews: Jake Thompson, Gabby Thompson, Erika Fortenberry, Heather Beaty, Clint Fortenberry and Paige Clark. He loved being involved in their lives and he took great pride in their accomplishments. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Lance Fortenberry.Gary will be remembered for his sweet spirit and unselfish character. Nothing made him happier than when he was able to help others. Gary leaves behind a legacy of a life well-lived. He will be dearly missed by all his family and friends. Donations in his memory may be made to the Mesquite ISD Education Foundation or Autism Research Institute.