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Henrietta Louise Fortson (Rhetta) was the sixth child out of nine and the eldest of the "second four," born to the late Lucy (Rector) and Henry L. Fortson in Knoxville, Tennessee. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry minor from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. She later earned her teaching credential and a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, Los Angeles.
Henrietta loved being with her five brothers and two sisters. She enjoyed learning and developed a passion for music. She started piano lessons at 6 and voice lessons at 12, and by 13, she was playing for the church choir. As a high school senior, she won the first-place prize of $1,000 in the annual East Tennessee Talent competition sponsored by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
After teaching in the Los Angeles County School System and working as a sales representative for several educational publishing companies, Henrietta became an educational consultant. She provided professional development in English Language Arts and reading methods to K-12 teachers, strengthening how teachers connect and educate their students.
Henrietta was known for her strong beliefs in health, wellness, medicine, and treatment. She rollerbladed regularly, was an avid walker, and was fastidious about eating good foods. She often advised others on incorporating wellness into their lives.
Henrietta was an avid traveler, exploring the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Africa. She cherished visiting family and friends and, when she passed away, was planning a cross-country road trip.
Henrietta was also an active member of the Fisk University Alumni Association. Her goal in life was to give back as she moved forward, and her purpose and service were to children and youth.
Henrietta deeply loved the Lord and worshiped at several churches in Los Angeles. At the Guidance Church of Religious Science, she learned about a later joined the Georgia Laster Branch (G.L.A.M.) of the National Association of Negro Musicians in 1989. She supported their initiatives, including the annual scholarship program for high school students and providing music instruction to elementary and middle school students. Henrietta held several leadership positions, including Branch President, Financial Secretary, National Treasurer, and G.L.A.M., Inc. Board Member.
She leaves behind her siblings Nancy (Fanette) Simmons, Gwendolyn A. Daniels, and Michael E. (Connie) Fortson, three sisters-in-law, Lois Fortson, Evelyn Fortson, and Lissette Fortson, countless nieces, nephews, cousins, students, teachers she mentored, valued friends, and her beloved 16-year-old Jack Russell Chihuahua mix, Chico. Please join Henrietta’s family as they celebrate a well-lived life.
