Mr. Edward S. "Big Money Eddie" Fortune

Edward Fortune, 63, of Peoria, IL passed away at his home on Saturday, August 9, 2014. Edward, affectionately known by family and friends as “Big Money Eddie,”was born on April 30, 1951 in Peoria IL. He was the seventh child of George A. and Josephine F. (Sydnor) Fortune. He is survived by his loving and devoted companion of 35 years, Therese L. Clark of Peoria IL; four children, Alphonso Fortune of Quincy, IL, Edward (Emma) Parker, Jr. , and Keith Clark both of Peoria and NiKeya (Korey) Clark-Fortune of St. Louis, MO; his siblings, Mary Kathryn (Jack) Williams of Peoria, Obbia “George ” Fortune of San Leandro, CA , Timothy (Margaret Ann) Fortune of Peoria and Jannice “Dolly” (Eric) Oppong-Agyare of Stone Mountain, GA; his loving grandchildren; including a grandson, whom he raised, KeJuan Clark of Peoria, Cash, Emmanuelle, Paris, Little Eddie, Shypriest, Little Joe, Keith, Jr., and Dani; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Louis Fortune; three sisters, Barbara Marie Lee, Carolyn Yvonne Barnes and Betty Jane Fortune. Edward accepted Christ at an early age at the family church at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Edward was a 1969 graduate of Woodruff High School. Edward was the first African American Manager for many years at the old Crawford Shoe Salon located in downtown Peoria. He went on to work at Butternut Bakery where he was a baker. Shortly after leaving there, he worked for Shared Foods as a distributor. Later he retired from the East Peoria Super Wal-Mart in 2008 as a lead Floor Technician after many years of service. Edward was an avid reader, known to read the newspaper from front to back. He was a great provider; loved his family and grandchildren. He knew how to knit; loved to cook and do yard work. He was a great pool and darts player. One of his favorite past times was buying lottery tickets and playing slot machines. “Big Money Eddie” Fortune was a very vocal and loving person who spoke his mind and would let you know how he felt at all times. He was truly loved and will be greatly missed. We are so thankful that he touched all of our lives. Funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at Simons Mortuary with a visitation one hour prior beginning at 10 AM. Pastor James Hayes of St. James Baptist Church, Hillsboro, IL will officiate. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com.

Tributes

Mr. Edward S. "Big Money Eddie" Fortune

April 30, 1951 - August 9, 2014