06/23/2025

Barry Joe Horton was born on January 12, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana and was surrounded by his family as he took his final earthly breath on June 15, 2025, at the age of 74, in Tyler, Texas.

Born to Arthur and Irene Bailey Horton, Barry was raised in Timpson, Texas. In his youth, he was active in the Timpson community: he was a proud Eagle Scout, an active member of the First Baptist Church, a four year varsity letterman in track and football as well as Mr. School Spirit in his Sophomore year. He graduated from Timpson High School in 1969 and went on to graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1975 with a degree in Business Administration. On April 7, 1973 he married Anita Anne Morris. Though their relationship turned out to be less permanent than either of them expected, they raised two exceptional, intelligent, and loving children, BJ and Chase, while living in Jersey Village, TX. Barry worked at Jefferson Pilot Life Insurance in Houston for most of his career. After retirement, Barry returned to Timpson where he lived out his remaining days.

Barry enjoyed the simpler things in life like a hot cup of black coffee, a heaping plate of fried chicken, and the company of family and friends. Barry was a devoted father—spending many years volunteering his time and resources to Boy Scouts. He served as a Den Leader, a Cub Master, and Scout Master for BJ and Chase’s Cub Scout Pack and Troop. He never took himself too seriously as evidenced by his participation in the “Womanless Beauty Contest” to raise money for the boy’s pack. While he didn’t win the contest, his participation created lasting and joyful memories for all who attended. Barry was happiest when he was spending time in nature with his sons and he appreciated the life lessons and skills that he was able to share with his children through Scouting. Barry took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and never shied away from being their constant cheerleader—whether he supported them by making fabric flags with the logo of their baseball team that he proudly waved behind the outfield fence at baseball games or the myriad of photos of BJ and Chase that he proudly displayed in his home.

Barry delighted in the opportunities he had to spoil his two grandchildren: Trey and Emaline when they came to visit. Living in Timpson allowed “Pop” to share fond childhood memories with his grandchildren. Trey loved exploring the property with Pop and visiting “Trey’s tree” along the creek and Emaline loved sitting at the kitchen table for a tea party and listening to Pop tell stories. Both grandchildren fondly remember the games they would play with their Pop in the “tricky trees.” They will miss him deeply, but know that he is with Jesus. 

When asked how they would describe their father, BJ and Chase quickly replied that their Dad was godly, adventurous, stubborn, and hungry—for good food and for life. They never had to question the love their dad had for them—he always sent birthday cards and letters of which he always signed them with his beloved acronym YDLY.

Barry Horton was a loving father, a devoted follower of Jesus, an outdoor enthusiast, a collector of memories, and a teller of stories. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him well.

He is survived by:

Children:
BJ Horton and wife, Amanda
Chase Horton and wife, Pati

Grandchildren: Trey and Emaline

Former wife, Anita Overhouse and husband, Jeff

Seven grand-pups: Fancy Pants, Piddles, Ollie, Astro, Stafford, Short Stop and Ruby Sue

Sibling, Hal Horton and wife, Arlene

Niece and nephew:
Sheila Barrett and husband, Carl
Art Horton and wife, Kim

A lifetime of extended family and close friends, who he cherished and loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur F. Horton and Irene Bailey Horton. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 1pm to 2pm at Taylor Funeral Home located at 511 Ross Graves Drive, Timpson, Texas with the funeral services following at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Barry’s honor to Scouting America at bit.ly/BarryHortonmemorial.

An online memorial is also available at www.taylorfh.net.