Johnny Ray Horne, Sr.

October 8, 1953 - July 16, 2026

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Johnny Ray Horne Sr., a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, hardworking man, and loyal friend. Johnny's life was defined by faithfulness, dedication, strength, and an unwavering love for his family.

Born on October 8, 1953, Johnny grew up in Troy, North Carolina, where he learned the values of hard work, honesty, and kindness. Those principles guided him throughout his life and were reflected in the way he cared for his family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Johnny dedicated many years of service to Valspar, where he earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic and dependable nature. After a lifetime of hard work and providing for his family, he retired in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, integrity, and pride in a job well done.

Johnny shared 43 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Zonie Horne, whose love and companionship were a constant source of strength and joy throughout their life together.

Above all else, Johnny cherished his family. He was the proud father of Mike DeBerry, Andra Ray, Detori Horne, Byron Godfrey, and Johnny Horne Jr. His greatest joy came from watching his family grow and knowing he had provided them with love, guidance, and unwavering support.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to LaQuila "Rabbit" DeBerry, Mikeya "Ki-Ki" DeBerry, Micheala DeBerry, B.J. Godfrey, Skyler Horne, Janiah Horne, Jacory Horne, Jaliyah Horne, and Jazmine Irene "Fat" Horne. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Malayah DeBerry and Kylen Garrison, who brought even more happiness and love into his life.

Johnny is survived by his loving siblings, Frankalyne Gainey, Rufus Horne, James Horne, George Horne, and Kato Horne. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Terry Horne and Roger Horne. He is also survived by his beloved mother-in-law, Rutha Ray.

Johnny will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He believed in earning an honest day's work, keeping his word, and caring deeply for those he loved. His steady presence, warm spirit, and gentle wisdom touched countless lives and will never be forgotten.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind. His love, wisdom, and example will live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He also leaves a host of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Johnny Ray Horne Sr. will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. His legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.