Chattanooga Community Mourns Florence Fortson-Nash

News Summary

The Chattanooga community is grieving the loss of Florence Antionette Fortson-Nash, a beloved educator and church leader who passed away on February 18, 2025. Known affectionately as Flossie, she dedicated over 20 years to shaping young minds in the Chattanooga City School System. Her commitment to education and community service touched many lives, and her legacy will be honored with a public tribute on March 7 at Second Missionary Baptist Church.

Chattanooga Community Mourns the Passing of Beloved Educator and Church Leader

In a heartfelt reflection of loss and love, the community of Chattanooga is coming together to remember a remarkable woman who has left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Florence Antionette Fortson-Nash, known affectionately as Flossie to friends and family, passed away on February 18, 2025, at Erlanger Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

A Life Rich in Service

Florence was born on July 7, 1954, and was brought into this world to the late Jacob and Louise Fortson. Growing up in the Riverside Park Community, she was a proud member of the Mighty Trojan class at Riverside High School, where she graduated in 1972. Florence’s journey in education began with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Morris Brown College in 1976, where she graduated with honors. Later, her passion for learning propelled her to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Master’s in Education.

Impacting Young Minds

Florence embarked on her teaching career in 1977 at East Brainerd Elementary, a role that she cherished deeply. With over 20 years of dedicated service in the Chattanooga City School System, she not only shaped the future of countless students but also inspired her peers within the education community. Her commitment to nurturing young minds was so profound that she dedicated her dissertation during her Master’s program to her son, Jonathan Keelan Nash.

Faith and Community Leadership

A devoted member of the Second Missionary Baptist Church, Florence’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. She was active in many church initiatives, serving as a Sunday School teacher, an usher, and part of the church’s bus ministry. Her heart was also in the community, participating in various organizations such as the Riverside Park Community Neighborhood Association, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and the United Negro College Fund. Florence was a formidable advocate for education and faith, firmly rooted in her belief in Jesus Christ.

A Legacy of Love

Family was everything to Florence. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Frances Love. Her legacy continues to thrive through her son, Jonathan, as well as her stepchildren: Jennifer Johnson, Pamela Evans, Kimberly Favors, and Vincent Nash. Additionally, she leaves behind a close-knit family of nephews, nieces, great and great-great nieces and nephews. Her special friendships with Mrs. Kay Moody and Ms. Sarah Perry were also cherished by many.

Honoring Florence’s Memory

The community will pay tribute to Florence’s extraordinary life with a public viewing scheduled for Thursday, March 6, from 2-6 p.m. at the local funeral home, where family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. The celebration of her life will take place on Friday, March 7, at 11 a.m. at the Second Missionary Baptist Church, culminating with interment at Lakewood Memory Gardens East. Arrangements for her services are being handled by John P. Franklin Funeral Home.

Remembering a True Inspiration

As people gather to celebrate Florence Antionette Fortson-Nash’s life, it’s clear that her impact will echo through the hearts of those who knew her. Whether through her dedication to her students, community service, or unwavering faith, Florence leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. The Chattanooga community will forever remember her as a beacon of light and an inspiration to many.

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Additional Resources

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