Jimmy Fortune Mourns Death Of His “Precious Son,” Jimmy Jr.
immy Fortune Shares Sad News Of His Son’s Death
Jimmy Fortune’s fans were heartbroken to hear that his beloved son, Jimmy Jr., recently passed away at the age of 51.
The Country Music Hall of Famer and former Statler Brothers member took to social media to share the sad news in a post on October 16. He said Jimmy Jr. died the previous day (October 15) after developing a “sudden bout of pneumonia.”
Jimmy shared the heartbreaking news alongside a photo of his son, who he often called “Little Jimmy.”
“Thank you all for the prayers through the years and for loving Jimmy,” he wrote. “He was my inspiration in this world and I will miss him with all my soul. I know that he loved the Lord and I know he loved you all. We were blessed to have him as long as we did. Keep our family in your prayers. God bless you all.”
Jimmy’s followers shared their condolences and prayers in the comments. He received a heartfelt message from the Oak Ridge Boys’ William Lee Golden, who wrote:
“Our Hearts are deeply saddened Jimmy Fortune praying for your Healing Mental, Emotional, Physically and Spiritually.“
Sadly, William knows Jimmy’s pain all too well. His own son, Rusty Golden, passed away earlier this year.
Obituary for Jimmy Jr. Remembers Him As “A True Inspiration To All That Knew Him”
Jimmy Jr.’s obituary from Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel lists some of his greatest passions in life. He loved playing cards and watching The Waltons. He also devoted a large portion of his time to Relay for Life.
“Little Jimmy” was also a proud Christian and a member of the Oak Hill Baptist Church. His obituary remembers him as “a true inspiration to all that knew him.”
In addition to Jimmy Sr. and his wife, Nina, Jimmy Jr.’s survivors include his mother, Melissa M. Thompson, and stepfather, Charles. He is also survived by six siblings: Chris Fortune, Meghann Fortune, Matthew Fortune, Jessica Turner, Cortney Buckley, and Grant Fortune.
Jimmy Jr.’s funeral services were held on October 19. He was laid to rest at the Ridgecrest Baptist Church Cemetery in Lovingston, Virginia.
In lieu of sending flowers, Jimmy Jr.’s family says those wishing to honor him can make memorial contributions to God’s Pit Crew, a faith-based non-profit that assists with disaster response. The organization is currently assisting those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Watch the video below to hear Jimmy speak more about his beloved son and how much he meant to him. He gets emotional as he describes Jimmy Jr. as his “hero.”
Our hearts and prayers go out to Jimmy Fortune and his family during this difficult time. May Jimmy Jr. rest in peace…
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