Derek R. Fortney

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Derek Ray Fortney, 19, a resident of Valley Head, departed this life early Saturday, April 25, 2009. His death was attributed to injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

He was born Oct. 2, 1989, at Elkins, a son of Jerry and Connie Fortney of Valley Head.

Also surviving are two brothers, Jeremy Fortney and wife, Carla, and Matthew Fortney, all of Valley Head; Derek's fiancee, Tonya Reed; two special nephews, Joshua and Cody Fortney of Valley Head; his maternal grandfather, Harold Brown and wife, Carolyn, of Kenton, Ohio; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Preceding him in death were his maternal grandmother, Kathleen Brown; and paternal grandparents, Jesse and Norma Fortney.

Derek was a graduate of Tygart Valley High School with the class of 2008 and was employed by Glotfelty Tire Center at the time of his death. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend and was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing and four wheeling. He loved spending time with his nephews, family, friends and especially Tonya, whom he loved dearly. Derek will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may call from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. today at Tomblyn Funeral Home in Elkins. A funeral service will be conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, from the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Leon Brown officiating. Interment will follow in the Valley Head Cemetery.

Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Derek Ray Fortney.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com.