The Life and Legacy of Fonnie Price

Born in Carroll County, Tennessee, to Lois and Georgia Ann Price, Fonnie's journey reflected a resilience that would define his character throughout his life. As a young man, he moved to South Bend, Indiana, where he began building a future marked by hard work, determination, and purpose.

Answering the call to serve his country, Fonnie proudly served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952 during the Korean War. He later continued his military service in the Army Reserve from 1954 to 1956.

On February 7, 1954, he married the love of his life, Ruth Joyce Price. They met while Ruth was visiting her sister in South Bend, and Fonnie's charm, sense of humor, and genuine kindness quickly won her over. Their love story became the foundation of a marriage built on faith and an unwavering commitment to family.

Like many of his generation, Fonnie dreamed of creating greater opportunities for his family. In 1955, he traveled to Lansing, Michigan, seeking a better future and an opportunity with Fisher Body. Determined not to miss the chance that could change his family's life, he slept in his car the night before his physical examination. His perseverance paid off, and after being hired, he returned to South Bend to bring Ruth and their son, Eugene, to Lansing. Over the course of a distinguished career with Fisher Body/General Motors, Fonnie advanced from production worker to one of the first African Americans accepted into the skilled trades as a millwright. He ultimately rose to become a supervisor and later a maintenance manager, breaking barriers and creating opportunities for those who followed. He retired from General Motors in 1984 after a career marked by leadership, excellence, and dedication.

Soon after settling in Lansing, he and his family became engaged members of Friendship Baptist Church, where they found a church home and an extended family. Through service, generosity and devotion to God, he exemplified what it meant to be a faithful servant. He faithfully served the church as an usher and a bus driver, always willing to help wherever needed.

A dedicated community member, Fonnie believed in giving back to the organizations that enriched his life. He was an active member of the Neighborhood Watch and the Churchill Downs Community Association. He was also a proud member of the Elks, the Masons, UAW Local 602, the Capital City Golfers, and the Par-Takers, forming lasting friendships through fellowship, service, and shared interests. An avid golfer, he never passed up an opportunity to spend a day on the course and was always convinced his next round might be his best one yet.

While he achieved much throughout his lifetime, Fonnie considered his greatest accomplishment to be his family. He was preceded in death by many loved ones, including his beloved Ruth; his sisters, Beatrice and Lena; and his brother, Rube. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted children, Eugene (Carol) Price, Linda Price, and Douglas Price, Sr.; and his beloved grandchildren, Nicole (Terrence) Hoskins, Jason Crawford, Jamie Crawford, Douglas Price II, Krystle Price, Tony (Dale) Palmer-Peterson and Kevin Palmer. His legacy continues through his nine great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends.

To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was more than a grandfather, he was a storyteller, teacher, source of encouragement, and the creator of "Zeberts" kisses. Those playful kisses became his signature expression of love and brought smiles to generations. He was also the proud owner of his favorite recliner, a seat that everyone in the family knew was reserved for him. Any grandchild brave enough to claim it as their own risked being gently, but firmly, reminded whose chair it was. If you lingered too long, Fonnie might simply sit right down on your lap until you moved.

Fonnie possessed a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and welcome. His warm smile, quick wit, and sense of humor could brighten any room. Whether sharing stories, offering wisdom, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, he left people better than he found them.