Willie Lee Fornett

Willie "Billy" Lee Fornett’s life journey began July 28, 1939 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the fourth of twelve children of Louis and Beatrice. He graduated from Carver High School in Pascagoula, Mississippi. He was a member of the Hornets Football team and always held a job even while attending school. After graduation, he was employed with First Chemical. Billy decided to relocate to Gary, Indiana in his early twenties. After getting established there, he sent back for the love of his life, Bobbie Nell Franklin and they were married March 18, 1966. Life’s journey took a tragic turn with the untimely death of his oldest sister, Myrtis. Billy and Bobbie became guardians of her three daughters and son. How quickly time passes...Billy and Bobbie stayed busy in spiritual and secular activities. The children grew up but Billy still had a passion for children. Thus, he developed a close relationship with his nephews. Billy spent many weekends mentoring them. The years rolled along...Billy retired from U.S. Steel after over 30 years of employment. "...I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) Billy believed that statement, dedicated his life to his Heavenly Father Jehovah and symbolized his dedication through water baptism on April 11, 1970, becoming one of Jehovah's Witnesses. "If a man dies, can he live again? I will wait all the days of my compulsory service until my relief comes. You will call, and I will answer you. You will long for the work of your hands." (Job 14: 14,15) Billy is now sleeping and awaiting the call. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Myrtis, Johnnie, Evelyn, Louis Jr, and Charles; and guardian nieces and nephew: Crystal, Kay, and Brennus. Billy leaves those left to remember him include, his loving wife: Bobbie; siblings: Rose, Janet, Linda (James), Roy (Starletta), Marion and Nadine (Jimmie); nephews: Gerald, D. J., Christian and Tristian; guardian niece: Phyllis (Marcus); sister-in-law: Peggy Dubose; brother-in-law: NJ Franklin (Gladys); devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, his spiritual family and friends.

Tributes

Willie Lee Fornett

July 28, 1939 - October 30, 2016