Helendee "Dee" Fortney Arbogast

HelenDee Fortney Arbogast, a resident of Port Wentworth, Georgia, passed quietly on December 9, 2025 at Landmark Hospital in Savannah, Georgia. She was born to James Henry Fortney and Helen Elizabeth Fortney on January 27, 1940 in Rockford, Illinois. Helen Dee graduated from Freeport High School in the Class of 1957.

HelenDee was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose generous heart touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

HelenDee is survived by her husband, Richard Terrence Arbogast; her four children — James Raymond Arbogast, Kimberly Ann Arbogast Jameson (Jesse), Timothy Scott Arbogast, and Stephanie Ann Arbogast Coning-Smith (Randy), 12 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by two brothers Herb Henning and Hank Fortney (Linda), and a sister Debbianne Davis (Jim).

Her kindness extended far beyond her home - she was known for her generosity and her willingness to help. Her legacy of compassion, warmth, and quiet strength will continue to shine through all those who loved her.

She will be cremated at Baker McCullough Funeral Home, and then she will be interned at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Freeport, Illinois, where she will reside with her mom, dad, younger brother, James Bartholomew Fortney and other family members. By her request, the family will not hold a service.

In lieu of flowers, please give to the National Cancer Society in her name.