Richard Allen Fort's Obituary
Richard Allen Fort, Jr. of Fort Meade, Florida and Gainesville, Florida died August 14th, 2018 at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Allen Fort, Sr. He is survived by his mother, Mary Varn Fort; wife, Melissa Harville Fort; daughter, Mary Sue Fort and grandchildren, Melina Rose Matrajt and Brett Michael Doerr. Additionally, he is survived by brothers, Dr. Charles Robert Fort (Carol) and James Edwin Fort (Connie); sisters, Mary Anne Whiteside (Jack Fowler, Jr.), Barbara Lee Thomas (Steve), Betty Lou Wallace (Terry), Beverly Lynn Shepard (William) along with many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Fort retired as General Manager of Peace River Packing Company in Fort Meade, Florida entering the business as a fifth-generation citrus grower in 1970 after graduating from the University of Florida and serving in the United States Army from 1966 to 1969. During his career he fulfilled many roles in the Florida citrus Industry including Chairman of the Board of Florida's Natural Growers in Lake Wales, Florida and Seald Sweet International in Vero Beach, Florida. He was a member of and Elder at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Meade, Florida.
He was a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather. He was proud to serve his country, his community, his church and work in the citrus industry that he loved. His grandchildren would like everybody to know he was a good man and a good Poppa.
A memorial service in Fort Meade, Florida is planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions are requested to the Polk County Humane Society in Lakeland Florida or Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?