Wilgus "Gus" H. Fortney

Wilgus “Gus” H. Fortney, age 78, husband of Sharon Edwards Fortney, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home.

He was born in Hazard, Kentucky on July 6, 1947, and was the son of the late Roy Fortney and Jessie Combs Fortney. Gus began his 47-year career in Emergency Medical Service with the Laurens County EMS and later with Thorne Ambulance Service in Greenville County. His fire service career began with the Clinton Fire Department and later with the Joanna Fire Department serving a total of 53 years in fire service. During his career he received numerous awards and recognition for his work as a Moulage Specialist and for his dedication to the profession he loved. He proudly served his country in the US Air Force as a veteran of the Vietnam War. Gus was an active member of Redemption Baptist Church.

Gus is survived by his wife of 33 years; his son, John Scott (Erika) of Honea Path, his daughter, Jennifer Stone of Rocky Mount, NC; his daughter in law, Candi Scott of Anderson; his brother, Danny Fortney (Cynthia) of Clinton; his six grandchildren, Elise Scott, Kinsey Scott, Ansley Scott, Colton Scott, Eli Stone and John Wilgus Stone.

In addition to his parents, Gus is preceded in death by his son, Ryan Scott and his brother, Joe Dean Fortney.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Redemption Baptist Church with Pastor James Burgess and Pastor Richard Hughes officiating. Burial with Military and Fireman Honors will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family will greet friends on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Gray Funeral Home of Laurens.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Laurens is assisting the Fortney family with services.