Local Man who was High School Educator and Coach, Business Owner, NFL Draftee, Joseph Fortier, Passes
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on December 03, 2025
Joseph “Matt” Matthew Fortier, 77, of Clarksburg, WV, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at United Hospital Center. Born in Takoma Park, MD, he was a son of the late Billie Jean Williams Fortier.
Matt graduated from Central Senior High School and got his degree at Fairmont State University. He was a gifted multi-sport athlete whose 
dedication and drive left a lasting legacy at Fairmont State. A three-time WVIAC wrestling champion from 1968–1970 and a four-year letterwinner in football, he earned two first-team All-WVIAC honors and was named the conference’s Co-Defensive Player of the Year in 1969.
He helped lead FSU to two football conference titles and proudly served as a starting tackle on the 1967 national championship team. In track, he lettered and guided the team to its first and only conference title in 1968. His outstanding contributions were recognized with the Jasper Colebank Award in 1970.
His athletic excellence culminated in being drafted by the New York Giants in the 10th round, a testament to his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment.
Matt was a high school teacher and coach for Lewis County High School. He was also a coal miner and the owner of Cardinal Pools.
Matt is survived by his two children: Katy Fortier of Clarksburg and Michael Fortier and wife Diana of Fairmont; grandchildren: Madison Fortier and Maximus Fortier; two siblings: Mike “Rebel” Fortier of Vermont and Micki Argilan of MD, and his wife Clara of Clarksburg.
Online condolences may be offered at the funeral home's website: davisfuneralhomewv.com.
