Springfield - Linda Sue Knight Fortson, 76, passed away on July 24, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones, after bravely battling a long illness. She was a remarkable woman whose impact on her community and family will never be forgotten.

A native of Chatham County, Linda found solace and purpose as a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Springfield. Her unwavering faith led her to serve as the director of God's Mission House for many years, touching countless lives with her compassion and generosity.

Linda was a strong and loving individual, and her loss leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Josie Lee Box Zittrouer and James Zittrouer, as well as her father, James Elonzo Knight. She was also preceded by her beloved daughter, Beverly Ann Myers, son-in-law, John Myers and step-mother of her grandchildren, Rhonda Herndon Myers.

Survivors include her devoted husband, Ernest Pelham Fortson, who was her constant source of strength and light throughout her journey. Her children, James Edward Hiott (Jenny), Samuel Lee Hiott (Stacie), and Joseph Daniel Hiott, were cherished and loved by Linda, and she leaves behind a beautiful legacy through them.

Linda adored her grandchildren, John Myers (Lauren), Joshua Myers (Blake), Alicia Myers Tripp (Logan), Beverly Hiott (Brandon), Kimberly Hiott, Kaleigh Schupp, Jamie "Amie" Hiott, Kelsey Hiott, Carol Ann Hiott, Emily Hiott (Brian), Joseph Daniel Hiott, II, James Cory Hiott, and Rebecca Hiott. She took great joy in her role as a grandmother and created cherished memories with each one of them.

Her family further extends with ten great-grandchildren, who brought immense happiness to her life. Linda's brother, Jimmy Zittrouer (Jane), and sisters-in-law, Sue Ann, Linda Gail, Wanda Jean, and Nona Faye, were dear to her heart, as well as several nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

A visitation will be held at First Baptist Church of Springfield from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, followed by a funeral service to celebrate her life at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to God's Mission House, c/o First Baptist Church of Springfield, 1435 Hwy. 119 N., Springfield, GA 31329, as a tribute to Linda's enduring commitment to helping others.

May Linda Sue Knight Fortson's legacy of love, faith, and compassion serve as a guiding light to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 912-754-6421.