Naomi Jean Fortune

Naomi Jean Fortune, 96, of Owensboro, passed away August 15, 2025, at Wellington Parc. Born April 8, 1929, in Daviess County to the late Arthur and Grace Burns Baird, Jean graduated from high school and went on to earn her master’s degree in education from Western Kentucky University. She dedicated thirty-six years to educating children in the Daviess County Public Schools system, starting her career at Snyder Elementary and retiring from Apollo High School. There, she earned a reputation as a legend, both in the classroom and with the basketball program. After retiring, Jean didn’t set aside her passion for teaching. She continued to serve in the school system as a substitute teacher until the age of eighty.

In her prime, teaching, Apollo basketball, and making memories with her daughter, Ellen, were her main pleasures in life. She kept stats for the team, and her and Ellen would travel with the team to various places to watch and keep records.

Jean was very active in her church. She played the organ for many years at Mt. Pleasant Cumberland Presbyterian Church before becoming a member of First Presbyterian Church in Owensboro. She made the greatest desserts—so good they made up for the fact that she retired from all other forms of cooking.

During her retirement, Jean was never one to sit still. She stayed busy knitting hats, many of which her loved ones proudly own, and tending to her beautiful flower garden. She found joy in creating things that brought a smile to others. Summing up ninety-six years is no easy task, but two things will always stand out: Jean was rarely seen without a smile, and in her eyes, everything her daughter did in life was nothing short of wonderful.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Merlin Baird and infant son, James Bruce Fortune, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Ellen Sweet, along with a host of close friends, who all loved her dearly.

The family will hold a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 22, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church. Care by Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that expressions of sympathy be made in the form of contributions to SAINT (Saving Animals in Need Together), 117 E. 18th St. #192, Owensboro, KY 42303.

Memories and Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.glenncares.com

In a beautiful tribute to her mother’s memory, Ellen is sharing one of her favorite recipes from the cherished collection of desserts her mom was known for.

Date Nut Balls Ingredients

• 8 ounces chopped dates

• 3/4 cup chopped pecans

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup salted butter

• 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

• 3/4-1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

• In a skillet, melt butter on medium heat.

• Once the butter has melted, stir in sugar, dates, pecans, and the egg. Once the mixture is cohesive, turn the heat to medium-high.

• Stirring constantly, cook until the mixture starts bubbling. Turn off the heat and cool 5 minutes.

• In a large bowl, fold the mixture into the cereal.

• Shape into 1 or 2 tablespoon balls with a small cookie scoop and roll in a bowl of coconut/ powdered sugar. Place on parchment paper or cooling racks to cool and set.