Marilyn Gunn Fortenberry

Marilyn Fortenberry, a cherished resident of Denham Springs, passed away on October 27, 2026, at the age of 93.

Born on January 17, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, Marilyn was the daughter of Len and Ernestine Booker Gunn. She grew up in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, lovingly raised by her Aunt and Uncle, Howard and Mabel Gunn Major. A dedicated scholar, she graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1966 and later earned her master's degree from Louisiana State University in 1972.

Marilyn devoted 25 years to teaching at Walker Lower Elementary, where her passion for education and her love for her students left a lasting impact. In her early years, she shared a love of travel with her husband, exploring the world together. Later, she found joy in gardening, journaling, and reading. Her kind and loving spirit will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Marilyn is survived by her children, Janis de la Houssaye, Kathy Speckman (George), and David Fortenberry (Judy); her grandchildren, Len Fortenberry (Amanda), Paul Fortenberry, Ryan and Charles Strickland, Taylor Whitehead (Patrick), and Alex de la Houssaye (Julia); as well as her great-grandchildren, Carter, Conner, and Brooke Fortenberry, Elsie and Silas Strickland, and Malachi and Noa de la Houssaye.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) Fortenberry; her parents, Len and Ernestine Booker Gunn; her aunt and uncle, Howard and Mabel Gunn Major; her son-in-law, Richard de la Houssaye; and her half-brother, Len Gunn, Jr.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Monday, November 2, 2026 for a visitation starting at 9:00 AM until the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow in Denham Springs Memorial Cemetery.