Raymond Dale Horton
With deep sorrow and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Raymond Dale Horton, age 83, who returned to his Heavenly Father on December 4, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Ray’s remarkable journey was one of unwavering faith, selfless service, and boundless love.
Born on June 2, 1941, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Gertrude McNeill Horton and Forest Dale Horton. Ray grew up with a foundation of faith and determination. His life was forever shaped by his 2 ½ years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Germany, where he developed a deep love for the gospel and a devotion to serving others. Upon returning home, Ray pursued his studies at the University of Utah while working nights as a watchman at the Salt Lake Utah Temple, a sacred place that always held a special spot in his heart.
Ray’s passions were as varied as they were impactful. A lifelong supporter of scouting, he guided countless young men through the Boy Scouts program, fostering values of leadership and integrity. His craftmanship as a woodworker was legendary, creating pieces that embodied the care and precision with which he approached life. Later in life, Ray found immense joy in his service at the Houston Texas Temple, where he gave his time and energy with a cheerful heart.
An active and devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ray was a true disciple of Christ, serving in numerous callings and touching countless lives with his warmth, wisdom, and love. He had a unique gift for making everyone feel valued and heard, often delighting those around him with captivating stories-whether about insurance, scouting, or his cherished life experiences.
Ray was preceded in death by his loving parents, Gertrude McNeill Horton and Forest Dale Horton; his dear grandparents, Virgil and Cora Statzell; Archibald Bleake McNeill; and Leah Dodge.
He is survived by his devoted wife of fifty-seven years, Pennie Ann Hansen Horton, who stood by his side through every triumph and trial. Together, they raised five children who were the pride of his life: Andrew Horton; Monica Mitchell and spouse, Randall; Melanie Matthews and spouse, Shonn; Kelly Horton and spouse, Charis; and Melissa Morrison and spouse, Jim. Ray’s influence extended to his beloved grandchildren, Xander Horton, Carter Horton, Shari Bildusas, Derek Mitchell, Shayla Mitchell, Dalton Mitchell, Sierra Mitchell, Brittany Johnson, Brianne Aiello, Shalyn Matthews, Taylor Menchaca, Myles Horton, Peyton Horton, Aiden Morrison, and Zachary Morrison; as well as his treasured great-grandchildren, Greyson Bildusas, Carson Mitchell, Apollo Mitchell, Emerie Mitchell, Hudson Mitchell, Hazel Matthews, Beau Cole, and Everett Johnson. His sister, Tamara Olsen and spouse, Gordon; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, will also carry forward his legacy of kindness and love.
A gathering of Mr. Horton’s family and friends will be 12:00 p.m., with his funeral service at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 7, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 8622 Farm to Market Road 418 West, Silsbee, under the direction of Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Church’s humanitarian efforts or a charity of your choice, honoring Ray’s lifelong commitment to serving others.
Raymond Dale Horton’s life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and dedication. His influence will echo for generations, a lasting reminder of his unwavering devotion to family, community, and God. He will be deeply and dearly missed, but forever cherished in our hearts.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-Silsbee
- 8622, Highway 418 West, Silsbee, Texas, 77656,
- December 7, 2024
- 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Funeral Service
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-Silsbee
- 8622, Highway 418 West, Silsbee, Texas, 77656,
- December 7, 2024
- 2:00 pm
Just saw that Ray passed away. I have not been on Facebook for two years and just happened to go on to check on Family. Ray was such a kind, considerate person. He was my boss at Ohio casualty and he will be missed by both my husband and I Den Hobbs
Dear Penny & Family,
We pray the empty place in your hearts will be filled with love and wonderful memories.
With love and admiration,
Randy & Christine Reeve
Penny: I just learned of Ray’s passing this morning, my sympathies to you and the rest of his family. Ray’s obituary mentions a life well lived, Ray certainly crammed a full life into the time that he was with us. I knew Ray from being his insurance counsel in California for Ohio Casualty. He was a excellent manager at Ohio Casualty and an even better person. One of my fondest memories is taking a day off, going to the Great America Amusement park In Santa Clara and taking Ray with me. Having time with him outside the office gave me the opportunity to get to know him better as a person, for which I was always grateful.
Dear Penny and Family,
My sincerest condolences on the passing of Ray. He always greeted me and everyone who entered the Lord’s House with such a warm and welcoming smile. I loved his sense of humor, his apparent love for Penny and his example of service, dedication and endurance. He was truly a chosen and faithful son of God. Heaven is blessed to have him return home. Prayers for comfort and healing that accompanies the loss of a loved one.
Melanie and family ,
I’m thinking and praying for you all and I know your Dad’s spirit will still be with you to love and guide you in your lives. His smile was infectious and he loved y’all so much.
Penny and family,
We were so sad to hear about Ray. He was such a wonderful friend. We love both of you dearly. Our memories of New Jersey always have you in them. Ray was always so kind, understanding, and so giving. He would do anything for anybody. Even roast a pig for our ward dinner!! And, let our son live with you two until he graduated from high school. He was truly a disciple of Jesus Christ. He will definitely be missed here on earth. We are sure, though, that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have taken him in their arms and welcomed him home. We love you, Penny. We pray that you and your family will be strengthened and blessed through this difficult time. Love, Joel and Mary Lou
I met Pennie and Ray when I joined the Church in Medford, NJ. Ray was such a special man and his faith always came through in every endeavor he was involved with. His genuine love of the Gospel was evident in his actions. I didn’t realize he was that sick, but I know for certain he is whole again and will be watching over his family and especially Pennie. My heartfelt condolences to you Pennie and your entire family.
Ray was a very nice person and boss as well as a great mentor while he was my manager at Ohio Casually in the Concord, Ca. claims office. When I reflect on my claims career of over 30 years his guidance and believing in me was instrumental as I made my way through my career . Thank you Ray Horton for being a Great mentor. God created a great man that I am sure touched many lives in a positive way, mine included.
Penny,
I worked with Ray for many years. He was my mentor originally as I learned the business. Then he became my friend. I knew that Ray had inoperable cancer so you had a chance to say “goodbye”. Hopefully, he did not suffer long from that dreaded disease. Sincerest sympathy for your loss. Ray will be in my prayers.
Dave Gervers