Gerald Horton

Gerald David Horton, 79, of Tupelo, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center after a brief illness. Born on July 23, 1946, in Tupelo to Cyrous Horton and Christine Edge Horton, Gerald graduated from Saltillo High School and later earned his electrical license. He worked as a truck driver while continuing to apply his electrical skills, reflecting a lifelong dedication to hard work and self-improvement. In 1973, he married Carol Ruth Summers Horton, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community while raising their two children.

A committed lifelong learner, Gerald attended Itawamba Community College in the 1980s and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Mississippi’s Tupelo campus. His faith was central to his life. A devoted member of Allen’s Chapel United Methodist Church, he served as a choir member, Sunday school teacher, and participant in the United Methodist Men’s group. In 1986, he personally completed all the electrical work when the church was rebuilt, offering his expertise as a lasting gift to the congregation he cherished.

Gerald found joy in life’s simpler pleasures. An enthusiastic supporter of Mississippi State athletics and the Pittsburgh Steelers, he lived by his Republican values and maintained a strong commitment to health and fitness. He loved watching birds, spending time by the water, relaxing at the beach, and deep-sea fishing. Above all, he was a devoted family man who welcomed many into his extended circle, often inviting others to church and sharing his faith with kindness and warmth.

He is survived by his children, David Horton and his wife, Star, of Wheeler Community, and Chrissi Horton of Mooreville; grandchildren Isabella Horton and Ellalee Horton; and brothers James Horton and his wife, Barbara, of Pratts Community, and Jacky Horton of Tupelo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cyrous and Christine Horton; his wife, Carol Ruth Summers Horton; and his sister, Linda Staten.