George E. Fortier, Jr.

George E. Fortier, Jr., of Woonsocket, R.I., passed away Dec. 9, 2025. He was visited and cared for by his family and friends during three weeks of medical care at Landmark Medical Center.

He was born in Woonsocket in 1942, son of George Sr. and Jeanette, and grew up with his two sisters, Constance and Lucille. He and his wife of 61 years, Rita, raised three sons: George III, Brian, and Jason.
One of his early jobs was as a carpenter for CVS/Mark Stevens. His true career began when he worked for his father in his painting business, which he took over and expanded into a full general painting contracting company, which he ran for decades.

He was sought after by his customers for his careful attention to detail, genuine love of accomplishing something valuable, and a deep respect for others and the quality of his work. Many local houses still have the wallpaper, finish painting, cabinets, countertops, doors, windows, and decks that he built and helped maintain over the years.

George's sons learned many things working with him, including how to paint: "Let the brush do the work," he always said. He continued working on small jobs even in the last years of his life.

He was an active, enthusiastic member of many local social organizations, such as the Jaycees and Sayles Hill Rod & Gun Club, where he served twice as president and ran game dinners and fishing tournaments. He joined the Cercle Laurier in 1966. He is a lifetime member and served as building committee chair in 2008 to construct the current building. There, he played many a game of shuffleboard and quoits. He was also treasurer of Parkview Manor Social Club in recent years and a Little League coach when his sons attended Bernon Heights.

He and Rita spent 20 years of summers in Sandwich, Cape Cod, Mass. He was an avid golfer and followed the "carry 2 clubs from the cart" rule.
He always showed how much joy he found in his work, his family, and his friends. He overcame serious medical limitations for the past 35 years with determination and a sense of humor. He was nails, and his family and friends will miss him.

Parents George E. Fortier Sr. and Jeanette Fortier (Lacquerre). His sister Connie Boisvert, married to Charlie, and their children Jeff, Glenn, Mary Beth, and Matt. His sister Lue Couture, married to Jim, and their children Kristen and Jimmie. His sister-in-law Jeanne Bouchard and her family. His wife Rita (Moreau). His sons and grandchildren: George III and children Ellie, Tess, and George IV. Brian, married to Denise (Leone), and children Nathan and Anna. Jason, married to Wendy (Spender), and children Elaine and Edward.

In lieu of flowers, donations in George's name can be made at autismspeaks.org

His funeral will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 10 am in St. John the Evangelist Church, 63 Church St.,  North Smithfield, where George served on the building committee for reconstructing the rectory.  Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.  Calling hours are Monday from 4-7 PM in the Holt Funeral Home, 510 So. Main St., Woonsocket. 

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