Gary Lee "Jug" Fort, of Rockford departed this earthly life August 9, 2024. He was born May 13, 1957 in Rockford the son of Lonnie and Hattie Mae Fort. He married Cynthia Bonney, she preceded him in death. Gary was self employed as a carpenter many years and as a cook by Smokehouse Barbeque. He was a member of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. Gary enjoyed fishing and cooking. He attended Auburn High School where he participated in basketball and baseball.

Gary leaves to cherish many loving memories, three sons, Ronald Fort, Lonnie Fort and Quanie Leach; five sisters, Sonya Marshall, Gail Fort, Kathy Safford, Pearlene (Clyde) Purifoy and Lue Ozzie Curtis; three brothers, Cal (Jackie) Fort, Stanley (Karen) Fort and Freddie Blake; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.  He was predeceased by his parents; three sisters, Donna Fort, Leanette  Fort and Wanda Allen; and three brothers Ronald Fort, Casper Blake and James Blake.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 19, 2024 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Visitation 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.