June Allen Fortune, 84, of Radford, passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2018, surrounded by her friends and pastor. She was born November 17, 1933 to the late Minne Jones Fortune and Jack Fortune.
She is survived by her beloved cousin, Janet Bonds of Bedford, and Janet’s son, Mark Bonds (Tina) and their children, Matthew, Daniel and Rebekah of Troutville. She is also survived by close friends Palma Clark, Patty Manor, Bobby and Anna Frye, Delores Smith, Kathy Vaughn, Louise Stafford, and many others.
June graduated from Radford High School and Radford College with a B. S. in Chemistry and an M. S. in Education. In college, she was a member of Alpha Sigma Tau, and Chi Beta Phi. She planned to be a chemist but was recruited to teach science at Pulaski High School. She discovered that she loved teaching and retired from Radford City Schools after 40 years where she taught science at Belle Heth and Dalton Intermediate Schools.
She belonged to the National Education Association, the Virginia Education Association, and the Radford Education Association, serving as president for more than one term. Since 1977 she has been an active member of the Nu chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, an honorary society of women educators. She was a dedicated and inspiring teacher, and it showed in her love for her students and colleagues, and their love and respect for her.
June was passionate about her church, Grove United Methodist where she was a dedicated member for 72 years. She was active on many committees and especially enjoyed Bible Studies and being a substitute teacher for her Sunday school class.
June was a devoted daughter who took care of both of her parents. She enjoyed spending holidays with her cousin and her family. She decorated her home for every season and especially Christmas, her favorite holiday. She was a wonderful friend to many and loved spending time with them shopping, going to lunch, or watching sports and ice-skating. She got up every day and dressed up, complete with matching jewelry in case someone came by. She was fascinated with technology and enjoyed using iPads, laptops, tablets, and smart phones. She was a delightful person who had a great sense of humor and lived her life with grace, dignity, and strong faith in God.
There will be a visitation beginning at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 14, 2018 at Grove United Methodist Church in Radford. A celebration of life service will begin at 2 p.m. with Reverend Mark Kilbourne officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Cemetery in Christiansburg.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grove United Methodist Church, 1020 Tyler Avenue, Radford, VA 24141.
The Fortune family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
