Richard Horton

Richard L. “Dick” Horton Sr., 85, passed away on October 16, 2013 at the Missouri Veteran’s Home in Mt. Vernon Mo. He was born to Frank and Florence Horton on August 5, 1928 in Springfield, Mo. Richard was united in marriage to Clara Samworth on May 15, 1964.
He is survived by his wife Clara, children and their spouses: Lesa and Gerald Wood, Rick and Tara Horton, Ben and Kim Horton, and Lori and Tom Meutzel.
Brothers and sisters: Bill and Mary Horton, Catherine Ferrell, Carl and Judy Horton, Barbara and Bernard Francka, Pat and Belle Horton, Charley and Linda Horton, Mary Ann Horton and Virginia Mayeux. Grandchildren: Hannah, Lucas, Brenna, Max, Ryan, Megan, Sydney, Grant, Hope, Shane and Erin. Forty three nieces and nephews and countless cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Frank, his mother Florence, brothers and their spouses, Frank and Sheila Horton, Jack and Mary Horton, a sister Virginia LaScala, brother in law Dorm Ferrell and daughter in law Michelle Horton.
Richard was a devout and active member of St. Agnes parish and volunteered for years and sponsored countless members into the Catholic Church. He was a Korean War Purple Heart Veteran, Knights of Columbus Grand Knight council #698 in 1961, member of VFW post 3404. He worked in grocery sales for 38 years. He was an avid sports fan and volunteered many years at Springfield Catholic School sporting events.
Richard was a loving husband and father and doting Papa, he never knew a stranger and had a smile and a handshake for everyone he met.
Funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday Oct. 19, 2013 in St. Agnes Cathedral with Fr. Mike McDevitt celebrant. Visitation will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with a Prayer/Rosary service beginning at 8:30 p.m. Friday all in the church.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Veterans Home 1600 S. Hickory Mt. Vernon, MO 65712.
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