Thelma Fortner

Thelma Juanita Hart Vinson Fortner, 86, born May 29, 1931, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on January 25, 2018. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband and father of her children, Bobby V. Vinson; brothers; great-grandson Cody Smalling; daughter Bobbie Jean Smalling; as well as her second husband, A.C. Fortner. She is survived by her son, John Vinson; daughter, Susan Matthews; grandsons, Todd Smalling, Mickey Matthews, and Robby Matthews, as well as four great-grandchildren (Maegan Smalling, Clayton Smalling, Waylon Matthews, and Tyler Matthews); and four great-great-grandchildren (Peyton, Makenzie, Landon and Mika). She retired from Maybelline where she made many lasting friendships. After retiring, she enjoyed gardening and was always planting something new. Her greatest joy, however, was spoiling her children and grandchildren. She loved traveling in her motor homes (she ended up buying three, each one bigger than the last) with the kids and taking them all over the country. Her favorite motor home destination was on the beach in Panama City, Pensacola, or Gulf Shores. She always made Christmas a very special time for the entire family. The family would like to take the opportunity to thank the caregivers and staff at Robinson Nursing and Rehabilitation for the wonderful care, compassion and friendship extended to our loved one and our family.
Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 29, 2018 at Smith - North Little Rock Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Palestine Cemetery. A visitation will be from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 28, 2018 at the funeral home.