Raymond Lester Horton

Raymond Lester Horton, age 87, of DeWitt went to be with his heavenly father Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, decorated soldier, deacon at Bellview Missionary Baptist Church, beloved father and grandfather, and a friend to many. Raymond proudly served overseas in the United States Army during WWII where he earned a purple heart among several other medals. Upon his return from war, he married the love of his life, Irene Trussell, in Aug. of 1946. Throughout his life, he made many trips to Mexico as part of a missions team that helped to build over 80 churches. Left behind are his five children, Sammy Horton of DeWitt, Darell Horton of Maumelle, Cathy Malone of Little Rock, Rocky Horton of Stuttgart, and Debbie (Phil) English of DeWitt; one brother, Mervle Wayne Horton of Texas; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Irene Trussell Horton; two brothers, Earnest and Charles Horton; and one daughter-in-law, Billye Horton. Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 13 from 5-7 p.m. at Essex Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. at Bellview Missionary Baptist Church with burial Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Bellview Missionary Baptist Church in Ethel. www.essexfuneralhome.com.