Robert Wesley Fort Jr.

Robert Wesley Fort, Jr., 76, of Forsyth, GA passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025. 

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Forsyth Presbyterian Church. Visitation with the family will be 12:00 – 2:00 pm at Forsyth Presbyterian Church. The burial will be private. 

Robert was born May 3, 1948, and lived his entire life in Forsyth. He graduated from Mary Persons High School in 1966. During his time at MPHS, he was active in the FFA and played trumpet in the marching band. It was during his time in the band that he met the love of his life, Pat Bates, in the drum section. 

After graduating, Robert and Pat were married on July 9, 1966, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion. 

Robert and Pat were blessed with three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. To his family he was affectionately known as Daddy, Pop, or Sugar Pop – each name a testament to the deep love and admiration they held for him. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the importance of family and taking care of each other, as well as being of service to others. He was also a father figure to many friends of his children and grandchildren. 

Robert built a career in the HVAC industry, working at Marbut Company and later at Hughes Supply, before retiring from Dealer Supply. 

Beyond his professional life, Robert was deeply committed to the recovery community in the area, with 37 years of sobriety. He sponsored many in AA and shared his experience, strength, and hope with countless others. 

In his earlier years he was an avid hunter, fisherman, and later enjoyed riding horses with his youngest daughter, Kerri. 

More recently he greatly enjoyed actively participating in high school reunion planning and reconnecting with old friends. 

One of his greatest joys in life was watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participating in the things they loved to do. 

Robert was survived by his wife of over 58 years, Pat Fort; children, Lanie (Don) O’Neal, Wes (Leanne) Fort, and Kerri Lee; grandchildren Brent (Eddie) Jones, Katie (Tyler) Zellner, Hailey Jones, Robby (Kassidy) Fort, Gabe Lee, and Gibson Lee; great-grandchildren Lucy Grace Fort, Maddison Harrell, Isaac Jones, Lennon Zellner, Eli Zellner, and Marlee Kate Fort, as well as his “Hughes Family.” 

Robert’s legacy of love, resilience, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, PO Box 928, Forsyth, GA 31029. 

Please visit www.monroecountymemorialchapel.com to express your condolences. 

Monroe County Memorial Chapel 86 West Main Street, Forsyth, Georgia, has charge of the arrangements.