Sidney Fomby, Jr.

Mr. Sidney Fomby, Jr. was born on January 24, 1946, to the union of Sidney Fomby, Sr., and Cora Lee Chatman Fomby in Lincoln, Alabama. He confessed Christ at a young age and united with Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church. He received his formal education in the Talladega County School System and was a graduate of Talladega County Training School. He furthered his education by attending Gadsden State Community College. Mr. Fomby enlisted in the United States Army, faithfully serving his country before he was honorably discharged. Prior to his discharge, he was the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Sharpshooter (Rifle). Once returning to civilian life, Mr. Fomby embarked on his career with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company as a tire curer. After 34 years of employment with Goodyear, he retired in 2001. Mr. Fomby was an exceptionally outgoing individual who never met a stranger and served as a prominent figure in his community, and many referred to him by the name, Geech or Jr. He had a profound passion for sports. In the era before cable and satellite television, Mr. Fomby would enjoy watching his football and baseball games on two televisions stacked atop his floor model television, all while tuning into NASCAR races on the radio. Interrupting him during his sports viewing was strictly prohibited, a sentiment that his immediate family members fully acknowledged and respected. His preferred teams included the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Auburn Tigers, while his favorite NASCAR driver was Dale Earnhardt Sr. Additionally, he was an ardent admirer of blues music, with Bobby "Blue" Bland being his favorite artist in the genre. In earlier years, he was the manager for both the Sandlot Little Leagues baseball team and the Lincoln Cubs Men's baseball team, where he played as a first and second baseman. He also played as a running back and halfback for TCTS. In addition to serving as an umpire for junior varsity and varsity high school baseball games. Mr. Fomby regularly provided his assistance to the Lincoln High School football team, supporting Coach Brooks as needed. In 1970, he co-founded the Big Nine Social and Savings Club, which hosted annual Christmas parties, an Easter egg hunt for local children, along with quarterly baseball games. He held the position of president of the club from 1976 to 1980. Mr. Fomby also served as a councilman for the Lincoln third ward in the City of Lincoln for a duration of two years. In 1988, Mayor Lew Watson resigned to pursue a job opportunity in Georgia. Following Mayor Watson's direct recommendation, Mr. Fomby was appointed by the city council to serve as mayor for a two-year term, becoming the first and only Black mayor in the history of the City of Lincoln. Throughout his public service career, Mr. Fomby participated in various committees, including the National League of Cities and the Alabama League of Municipalities. During his time as mayor, he managed one of the city's largest wastewater sewage expansion projects, successfully overseeing its completion without any cost overruns. His leadership also facilitated the successful execution of several city improvement initiatives. Despite the considerable support from city residents urging Mr. Fomby to seek a second term as mayor, he opted not to pursue a second term primarily because he was employed full-time in a third-shift position at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company during his entire period of public service. In the years leading up to his health decline, Mr. Fomby had the honor of one year being elected Grand Marshal for the City of Lincoln Christmas parade. While in the comfort of his home surrounded by his cherished family, Mr. Sidney Fomby, Jr. peacefully transitioned to ancestry on August 29, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Sidney Fomby, Sr. and Mrs. Cora Lee Fomby, as well as his brothers, Mr. John W. Embry and Mr. Fred L. Fomby; Brother-in-Law, Mr. Nelson White; Sister-in-law, Mrs. Mamie Embry, and special sister-in-law, Mrs. Geraldine Arceneaux. He leaves a legacy of love and memories to forever be cherished by his wife of 55 years, Mary E. Fomby; two daughters, Rachel D. Fomby and Fanya C. Curry; three grandchildren, Sidney Lamar Fomby, Gabrielle A. Curry, and Jayden D. Curry; three brothers, Roosevelt (JoAnn) Fomby and Elton (Jimmy Lou) Fomby, Rodney (Vicki) Fomby; one sister, Lorene White; one special brother, John W. Arceneaux; Godson, Sheraton Groce; Goddaughter, Tavia (Elder Ronald) Sillmon; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Tributes

Sidney Fomby, Jr.

January 24, 1946 - August 29, 2024