WILMINGTON — Walter “Walt” Herman Horton, age 83, of Wilmington, passed away Wednesday, April 9, 2025, after a brief illness. He was born July 20, 1941, in Bunn, NC, son of the late Johnny and Linnie Horton.
In addition to his parents, Walt was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Barbara Jenness Horton; his brother, David Horton; sisters Audrey Ray and Laura Hamlet; his sister-in-law, Judy Ramsay; and nephew Eugene “Bud” Jenness. And forever by his side, his beloved dogs Hinkley, Chance, and DJ.
Walt is survived by his and Barbara’s children, Shanna Grable (Jay) and Christian Horton (Danielle Walker); and two grandchildren, Walker Horton and Savannah Grable. He was a brother-in-law to Ann Horton, and uncle to Glenn (Susan), Tony (Karen), Lynne (Michael), Rusty (Kristy), Jeff (Cary), Lisa (Richard), Wendy (Jeff (d.)), Melissa (Zack), Angela (Todd), and Brian, as well as 19 great-nieces and great-nephews. He leaves behind many other family members and friends who will all sadly miss him.
Walt was a very well-respected man, especially known to all as being the hardest working man. For over 45 years, he found his home-away-from-home behind the wheel of his 18-wheeler. As a professional truck driver, it was a job he loved and took great pride in while being awarded countless certificates recognizing his excellent driving record. When he was not on the road, he cherished being a husband and father to his family. In recent years, he thoroughly enjoyed being a grandpa, attending as many baseball games and dance recitals as possible. Underneath the hard-working exterior, he was a quiet, humble, and loveable man who deeply cared and provided for his family. Most of all, he loved our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, whom he worshiped for years as a member of Northside Church. It should also not go without saying, he was also a proud fan of Duke University basketball.
The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers, and a special thank you to the team of doctors and nursing staff at Novant (NHRMC) for the caring efforts made in Walt’s final days.
