Marqueta Fortner, 71
May 28, 1955 – August 29, 2026
Tupelo – The world lost a special soul on August 29, 2026, when Greta Marqueta Fortner peacefully departed this life at her home. Born on May 28, 1955, in Tupelo, Marqueta was a cherished daughter of Ruby and Judd Bishop, both of whom predeceased her, along with her beloved sister, Judy Bishop. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Most of her family and friends knew her as Marqueta.
Marqueta’s roots were deeply planted in Baldwyn, where she grew up and attended school. Marqueta found her calling in the world of flowers and floral arranging, where her natural talent shone brightly. Later in life, she embraced the role of a caregiver, discovering a new calling.
Her eye for fashion was legendary among her friends and family. She loved pretty things. They rarely saw her anywhere without a well-planned outfit or a Diet Coke! Marqueta had an innate gift for interior decorating, gardening, music, and art. She enjoyed growing cactuses, roses, and other plants. A gifted cook, Marqueta loved preparing meals to share with loved ones and left behind a legacy of hospitality.
For 30 years, Marqueta was married to Jimmy Fortner. They stayed friends over the years and often caught up on life at family occasions.
From her early years as a homemaker, to her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, she was intentional in building memories with her family. Marqueta’s presence will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Tiffany Franks, and her husband, Brad. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Briana Cole and her husband, Easton, Dixi Huff and her husband, Robbie, Caid Franks, and Amaris Franks. She also leaves behind two treasured great-grandchildren, Edie Huff and JB Cole, who brought so much joy to her in her later years.
Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Pegues, Tupelo.
A funeral service honoring Marqueta’s life will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues Funeral Directors with Pastor Brad Franks and Bro. Roger Franks officiating. Burial will follow at Baldwyn Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Caid Franks, Robbie Huff, Easton Cole, and Jimmy Fortner.
Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be left at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Monday, August 31, 2026
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Pegues Funeral Directors – Tupelo
535 W Jefferson St, Tupelo, MS 38804
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Funeral Service
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
11:00 am
Pegues Funeral Directors – Tupelo
