Fred Lester Fomby

Mr. Fred Lester Fomby, a loving husband and devoted father known for his hard work and unwavering faith, started his earthly journey on August 1, 1938, to the parentage of the late Sidney and Cora Lee Fomby on Watson Farm in Lincoln, Alabama. Mr. Fomby accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and dedicated his life to serving. He was a faithful member of Pine Grove Baptist Church where he was a committed deacon, Sunday school teacher and church clerk. He also fulfilled his pledge to serve by becoming a masonic member. Fred received his education in Talladega County. His first eight years was spent in the Lincoln City School system. Afterwards, he attended Talladega County Training School where he was a proud member of the class of 1957. Fred was not only a talented football and baseball player but he also demonstrated his leadership skills by serving as the senior class president. Shortly after high school, Fred enlisted in the United States Army. After an honorable discharge, he entered the civilian workforce as a laborer and later as an insurance agent for Protective Life Insurance Company. In 1965, he began a productive and rewarding career at the Anniston Army Depot. He broke barriers in his career at the Depot, rising to become the first black man to hold the position of Senior Executive Officer and a GS-13. In January 1996, Fred retired from the Anniston Army Depot after 31 years of service. Along life's journey, Fred met the love of his life, Mary Lois Thornton. In 1963, they were united in Holy matrimony. Fred and Mary was fortunate to share their love with all of their children. On Monday, August 26, 2024, Fred heard the master's call and entered eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Cora Lee Fomby; granddaughter, Tonya Williamson; great-granddaughter, Peyton Wills; brother, John W. Embry; and brothers-in-law, Clarence Joiner, Cornett Thornton, and Nelson White. He is survived by his dedicated wife of 61 years, Mary L. Fomby, sons, Chris (Sheila) Embry, Robert C. Embry, Donnie (JoAnn) Watkins, and Michael (Lisa) Watkins; daughters, Brenda Douglas and Denita (Bruce) Granger; grandsons, Delrico (Delicia) Watkins, Lee D. (Mirian) Robinson, Denerail M. Fomby, and Donnie Stewart; Granddaughters, Bianca Embry, Tiffiny Williams, Khadejah Embry, and Donna (Sylvester) Smith; brothers, Roosevelt (JoAnn) Fomby, Elton (Jimmy Lou) Fomby, Sidney (Mary) Fomby, Jr., and Rodney (Vicki) Fomby; special brother, John Arceneaux; sister, Lorene L. White; special cousins, Raymond (Margaret) Fomby and Clarence (Betty) Embry; brothers-in-law, Paul Embry, Robert (Willie Pearl) Nissman, and Alfonso Thornton; sister-in-law, Tina Embry; host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. As we gather to share stories, laughter, and tears, let us fondly remember Fred's unwavering spirit, his dedication to service, and the love he shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will forever live on in our hearts.

Tributes

Fred Lester Fomby

August 1, 1938 - August 26, 2024