Mrs. Thelma Delores Martin Fortune entered into rest on Monday, February 10, 2025. Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025 at Friendly Church of God In Christ at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Mount Olive Memorial Gardens. Thelma Delores Martin Fortune, a beloved figure in her community, transitioned from earthly labor to eternal reward on Monday, February 10, 2025. Those fortunate enough to know her can attest that knowing Delores means loving her unconditionally and truly. She embodied unwavering strength, profound wisdom, and boundless kindness, which she freely shared with everyone she encountered. At the heart of Delores' existence was her deep love for God, which radiated from her in every interaction. She approached life with a spirit of faith, never missing an opportunity to share the teachings and grace of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with her family, friends, and anyone willing to listen; her passion for spreading the message of love and hope was genuinely inspiring.Delores' home was a sanctuary of warmth and welcome. Her kitchen bustled with activity, always prepared to feed those gathered within its walls. She believed in the power of physical and emotional nourishment and ensured that no one ever left her home hungry—not just in terms of food but also in the essence of love and belonging. Her meals were not merely sustenance; they expressed her love and care, often accompanied by stories and laughter that created lasting memories. Known for her natural comedic talent and sharp wit, Delores had an unparalleled ability to bring joy and laughter to any situation, lifting the spirits of those around her. Her humor lit up any room, creating connections and fostering community wherever she went. Delores was a beacon of light in the world—her warmth, generosity, and infectious laughter left an indelible mark on the countless lives she touched throughout her journey. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who remember her. Born on May 16, 1953, in Darlington, South Carolina, Delores was the fifth of six children born to Chester and Ruth Martin. She was educated in the Darlington County School System, attending Mayo High School before graduating from Saint John's High School in 1971. She briefly attended Florence Darlington Technical College before beginning a career at General Electric. While at General Electric, Delores encountered Herman Fortune, the love of her life. Their connection blossomed rapidly, filled with laughter and shared dreams, culminating in a heartfelt wedding on January 19, 1978. Over the next 37 years, they built a life rich with love, respect, and companionship until Herman's passing on August 1, 2015. Together, they had two cherished children, Ladell and Latonya Fortune, who became the joy of Delores's world. She took immense pride in their accomplishments, often sharing their milestones and successes with glowing joy with friends and family. Each proud moment was a testament to the love and values instilled in them, reflecting the deep bond that Delores and Herman nurtured throughout their years together. Delores accepted Christ early during her formative years and was a devoted Cherry Grove Baptist Church member in Darlington, South Carolina. In 1990, after relocating to Augusta, Georgia, the Fortune family joined the Friendly Church of God in Christ, where Delores became an active and dedicated servant. Over the years, she served in multiple capacities, including as a Youth Advisor, Youth Leader, Purity Teacher, and faithful member of the Hospitality Department. She served in the Food Kitchen for several years. She was a licensed Evangelist Missionary and served on the Missionary Board, the Junior Missionary Alliance, the Young Women's Christian Council (YWCC), and the Christian Women's Council (CWC). She was also a long-time Progressive Education Club (PEC) committee member and lent her powerful voice to devotion services and the Mothers in Zion Choir. Missionary Fortune was an exceptional cook whose culinary skills brought joy to everyone who tasted her creations. For several years, she dedicated herself to preparing breakfast at Friendly, where eager patrons formed long lines, excitedly awaiting her warm smile and delicious dishes. Each meal reflected her passion, turning the simple act of eating into a delightful experience that lingered in the hearts of all who enjoyed it. Delores founded the Black History Month Soul Food Meal at Friendly, an event that became a cherished tradition. With dedication and pride, she and her team crafted a feast that everyone eagerly anticipated each year. The long lines were a testament to the love and care she poured into her cooking—something she will always be remembered for. Delores was a passionate advocate for education and service, dedicating her life to shaping young minds. Her remarkable journey as an educator began with the Richmond County Board of Education, where she devoted 19 years of her life to inspiring countless students before retiring on May 14, 2014. However, her retirement marked not the end but a new beginning. Fueled by a lifelong passion for cooking, Delores pursued her dream and returned to school, earning an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts from Augusta Technical Institute at age 65. Her love for children also extended beyond the classroom; she further enriched her knowledge by undertaking additional coursework in Early Childhood Education, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to nurturing and guiding the youth. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 37 years, Herman Lee Fortune; her parents, Chester and Ruth Martin; her brothers, Chester Martin Jr., George Lee Martin, and George Allen Wingate; and her sisters, Joyce Ann Martin and Annie Mae Wilkerson. Delores leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Ladell Fortune of Atlanta, GA, and Latonya Fortune of Evans, GA; her devoted sisters, Lorraine Sansbury of Dover, DE, and Ruth Miles (Harry) of Philadelphia, PA; her brother Roosevelt (Betty) Davis; her beloved aunts, Reatha Johnson and Clareatha Jones of Philadelphia, PA, Edith Cauthen of Alpharetta, GA, and Maggie Ann Martin of Darlington, SC. She is also survived by her godsons, Caleb Jackson and Benjamin Davis; her adopted grandson, Malachi Anthony; her adopted son, Dr. James Davis; and her cherished Village Family. Additionally, she leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family members, and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Thelma Delores Martin Fortune embraced a life rich in love, dedicated service, and deep faith. Her legacy is sewn with threads of kindness, boundless generosity, and an unwavering devotion to God and her family. Through her warm spirit and compassionate actions, she left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to cross her path, inspiring them to carry forward the values she exemplified. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Tim 4:7-8 NIV There will be a viewing on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, GA. Viewing Sunday, February 16, 2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Williams Funeral Home 2945 Old Tobacco Road Hephzibah,GA 30815 Funeral Service Monday, February 17, 2025 11:00 AM Friendly Church of God In Christ 1115 Carrie St. Augusta,GA 30901