My great uncle Ed Horton died last week. He was 85. I’m going with my dad and Martha to his funeral in a little while.
I stand in complete awe at the incredibly full life he had. He was an Army captain and a World War II veteran, a college graduate, a hugely successful farmer and cattleman, a state senator, and sat on multiple boards of directors. He was a member of Belle Mina Methodist Church for more than 60 years. He was a loving father to three daughters, losing one to cystic fibrosis. I don’t remember how old Jean was when she died, but I doubt she was 30. (Edited: She was 31.)
Ed might also have been the kindest, sincerest, most eminently decent man I’ve ever known. And I know I’ve never met a more even-tempered person. That I (that pretty much anybody, I think) ever saw, Ed had exactly one mood. He was happy, content, thoughtful, and ceaselessly easygoing.
All of the children absolutely adored him. He had a real gift for relating to little people meaningfully, in a way that genuinely spoke to them without pandering to them. Some of my favorite childhood memories are at his house.
He was precious. The world is poorer. RIP.
(Edited: Here is a post remembering him on one of his nephew’s blogs.)
(Edited: Here is an excellent retrospective that appeared in The Huntsville Times this week.)
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I am sorry to hear of your loss. He sounds like somebody I, or anyone, would have liked to know.
Peace to you and your family.
Love and condolences, my friend. Sending comfort your way.
Thank you both. The service was lovely. Gerry, you and yours remain in our thoughts and prayers as well.
I’m sorry for your loss, Bo. From what you wrote about your Uncle Ed, I can tell that he contributed a lot to world. I hope you can take some comfort from knowing that he lived his life so well. Hugs.
Thank you, Cheryl. He was a fine, fine person. I am inspired and humbled by his example.
My condolences to you and your family. What a legacy he has left for you all in terms of his public service, but also that he seems to have been a truly wonderful person. I’m sorry for your loss.
Bo–what kind remarks about Dad. I knew how great he was but after the funeral, I realize how great he was to so many people. He had a big heart and you are right–even with 3 sometimes contentious daughters, I never heard him raise his voice! Love to all of you! Susan
O’Mama: Thanks so much. We appreciate it.
Susan: I’m glad you’re pleased. Thanks for saying so. Love to all of you too!