John Robert Horner Sr

John Robert Horner Sr., 97, passed away on August 11, 2024.

 He was preceded in death by Irene Horner, his wife of 69 years, and Cynthia Jean Osborne, his daughter.

John enlisted in the Navy during WWII as soon as he was old enough to do so in 1945. The war ended soon after and he lamented he never got to leave port. He went on to work as a neon bender, creating signs for companies all over the United States. A master in a dying art, he continued creating neon signs in his home shop for many years after retirement.

John loved to fish, as it always brought him joy. He caught his final fish at the age of 96. In his younger years he was an avid bowler, winning many trophies. He had a great sense of humor, and never met a stranger. Still fondly called “Coach” by many, he coached Little League and volunteered with the Little League Association, helping them to raise money and build a concession stand with office areas for the teams. Family was very important to John, and he was an incredible father. He was an active member in the Baptist church until health issues no longer allowed him to attend.

He will be missed by his sons, John Robert Horner Jr., Jesse Charles Horner and wife, Sarah; daughter Tina Cox and husband David; and David Osborne, former husband of his deceased daughter Cindy; grandchildren, Emily Collins, Scott Horner, Matthew Horner, Kate Dunham, Michael Cox, and Danny Osborne, as well as 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

John will be laid to rest at Culdee Presbyterian Church Cemetery in West End, NC Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 1 PM.