Loyd M. Fortenberry

Loyd M. Fortenberry, U.S. Army Retired, 87, of Biloxi, died Thursday, January 17, 2019 at the Biloxi VA. He was born in Bougalousa, LA, on January 19th, 1931. He served 26 years in the U. S. Army and received the Army of Occupation Medal and numerous others. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars and an active member of the VFW in Wiggins, MS. He was self-employed and owned an air conditioning company in Wiggins MS for many years. He was a devout member of Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic minister, lector, and served as Parish Council President. He was also a member of the VFW in Wiggins. He was very involved with Acts retreat ministry and a member of People of Praise. After moving to Biloxi, he became a member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. He loved to travel and loved his country. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Alice Fortenberry; a son, Byron Fortenberry; and two brothers, Wayman Smith and Drauda Smith. He is survived by his second wife of 23 years, Regina Viator Fortenberry of Biloxi; six step children, Mark Hanzalik (Lora) of Diamondhead, MS, Nanette Butts (Cliff) of Gulfport, MS, James Hanzalik (Kimm) of Slidell, LA, Joseph L Hanzalik of Biloxi, MS, Polly Jayjack (Nick) of Fairfax, VA, and Matthew Hanzalik of Biloxi, MS; 16 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; sister, Patricia Hillman (Murray); sister in law, Renate Smith; three brothers, Gerald Fortenberry, Harold Smith (Edna) and Rodney Smith (Jeanette); and daughter in law, Jan Fortenberry; A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 21, 2019 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi. Friends may visit one-hour prior. Burial will follow in Wiggins City Cemetery, Wiggins, MS. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.