James Glynn Fortenberry
86, Columbia
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Woodlawn Cemetery for James Glynn Fortenberry, 86, of Columbia, who passed away on Friday, Feb. 16. Rev. Heather Hensarling officiated at the services.
He was a lifelong resident of Columbia. He graduated from Columbia High School in 1956 and attended Millsaps College before graduating from the University of Mississippi in 1960.
He began his business career with his father at Brinson and Fortenberry Building Supplies. In 1974, he opened Magnolia Hall, a clothing and gift store on Main Street. His lifetime love of plants and landscape gardening led to his operating Fortenberry Landscape Company.
His work and interests reflected his love of nature, art and all things beautiful.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Isaac Fortenberry; and mother, Dixie Rowley Fortenberry.
Survivors include his daughter, Claire von Gahlen (Harald); one sister, Ann Fortenberry; and beloved family and friends.
Pallbearers were Lawrence Hahn, Johnny Fortenberry, Taylor Fortenberry, Sean Wade, David Colbert and Brad Pittman. Honorary pallbearers were David Martin, Larry Parrish and David Lewis.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests for memorials to be sent to the First United Methodist Church of Columbia Grounds Fund.
Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com. Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
