John Winder Horton

John Winder Horton of Panorama Village, Texas passed away on February 16, 2024. John was born October 15, 1927 in Raleigh, North Carolina to the late John Winder (Sr.) and Virginia Montressor (Riggan) Horton. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years, Patsy Jean (Massey) Horton; sister, Sue Mae (Horton) Yelderman and husband Jake; beloved Aunts Louise Jordan and Roxie Hatchell, Uncles Joe and Jimmy Riggan. He is survived by son, John Blair and wife Carole; son, Patrick Lee and wife Heidi; four grandchildren, Holly, Jonathan, Reagan and Jordan; and many loving nieces and nephews.

John “Buddy” and his older sister Sue lived a largely parentless upbringing. In the mid-30’s, they were moved from Raleigh to the Houston area living first at DePelchin Faith Home before moving on to a foster home (farm) in Fort Bend County. After graduating from Richmond High School in 1945, John served in the US Navy in the Guam and Mariana Islands area. Following his honorable discharge in 1947, he continued his education at Wharton Junior College and the University of Houston. His 38-year career began with Gulf Atlantic Warehouse Company in 1954 followed by the Port of Houston Authority in 1971 where he retired as Manager – Turning Basin Terminal in 1992.

John married the love of his life, Patsy Massey, on November 6, 1959. Their family grew in love and numbers with the arrivals of John Blair and Patrick Lee. For his sons (and eventually their families) John’s fatherly love, wisdom and encouragement in school, sports and recreation stood in stark contrast to his experience. Founded on a strong faith in God, John’s character and demeanor never hinted at the tumult and instability of his parentless upbringing. Quiet strength, subtle humor, and a huge encouraging heart; these were his calling cards.

Friends and family are invited to the visitation at 10 am on Saturday, February 24, 2024, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11am in the Chapel at First Methodist Conroe, 4308 W. Davis St, Conroe, Texas 77304. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 pm in Forest Park Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale St. in Houston. Those wishing to post tributes and memories to the family may do so at www.eickenhorstfuneral.com . In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to FMC Conroe or to a charity of your choice.