SOUTHPORT — James Richard “Jim,” “J.R.” Horton, 81, passed away Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019.
Mr. Horton was born July 9, 1938, in Jefferson County, New York, to the late Maurice Pitt Horton and Jessie Lee Horton.
Survivors include his three sons, James Horton of Key West, Florida, and Paul Horton and Timothy Horton; along with his partner, Susan of Burgaw; daughter, Kathleen Horton, along with her partner, Jeff, of Southport; brother, Harold Horton; two sisters, Ann Lee Lyons and Aletha Gregory; four grandchildren, Corine, Michael, Jacob and Reynolds; several nieces and nephews; and extended family. Mr. Horton was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Ellen Horton; and brother, Pete Horton.
James, known as, Jim to most, and J.R., to those he worked with, grew up in Henderson, New York, alongside the shores of Lake Ontario, where he spent many years of his adolescence working for boatmakers and fishermen. Graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science. While attending school in Philadelphia, he met the love of his life and future bride to be, Joan O’Donnell.
He served in the military from October 1961 to October 1963. He worked several years for Fay’s Drugstore in New York state before moving to Fayetteville in 1979 to accept a position with VA Hospital. It was here that Jim was given the name “J.R.” He not only found a job he loved, but also gained an extended family of friends that remained long after his retirement in 1999.
Upon retirement, Jim and Joan relocated to Southport. They sold their beloved beach cottage on Long Beach and began their life in the community of Arbor Creek. Throughout their 19 years in Arbor Creek, they forged many friendships. Jim had many hobbies and passions. He enjoyed playing golf for many years, which then transitioned into family mini-golf tournaments in his later years. He enjoyed traveling, history, gardening, birdwatching, Perseid meteor showers, a beautiful sunset, an ocean view, good ole’ country music and lighthouses.
But, what he loved most was family. He adored his wife and cherished their 54 years together. He loved his kids and was so proud of the accomplished adults they became. He held his grandchildren on a pedestal and loved nothing more than spending time with them. He held the bond that he had with his brother and sisters close to his heart. For those who were fortunate to meet him, knew what a kind soul he truly was. His smile, his humor and his love will be greatly missed.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 2, at Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral Home, Southport. A celebration of life ceremony will follow at 4 p.m. at the funeral home’s chapel along with a reception following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lane, Bolivia, NC 28422.
Share online condolences with the family at Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.
