Holly MatkinVestavia Hills, AL – Vestavia Hills Police Department (VHPD) Officer Darryl Wayne Fortner died on April 6 after battling a lengthy illness.
The 53-year-old officer was surrounded by his family when he passed away, the VHPD said in a Facebook post the following day.
His exact cause of death was not released.
“It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to one of our own,” the department said.
Officer Fortner served the VHPD for eight years after retiring from the Birmingham Police Department with 20 years of service in 2014, according to his obituary.
“He was a vital part of our Patrol Division and later transferred to our CSI Unit,” the VHPD noted. “Darryl’s kind spirit and humor inspired all of us, however, it was overshadowed by his integrity and Christian values. Please keep his family and the VHPD in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Officer Fortner leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Melinda, as well as his two children and three grandchildren, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his mother, sister, nephews, nieces, and cousins.
“He will be missed greatly but we know that in heaven he is healed and running the streets of gold,” his obituary read.
Officer Fortner was laid to rest on April 11.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Vestavia Hills Police Department Officer Darryl Wayne Fortner, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
