William J. "Jackie" Horton

William Jackson “Jackie” Horton, Jr. age 68 of the Mount Pisgah community, Bethune, S.C. passed away unexpectedly at Prisma Health Richland, Columbia, S.C. on Sunday, October 20, 2024. He was born in Monroe, N.C. to the late William Jackson Horton, Sr. and Annie Laura Belk Horton. Jackie was a graduate of Mount Pisgah High School and Coker College. As a young man, he chose the military as his career. He dedicated 36 years to the SC Army National Guard. Upon retirement he had the rank of Command Sergeant Major. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and dog, Stella, in his motor home. They recently took his dream trip out west and visited many National Parks along the way. Jackie also loved to grill and cook for his family. He also enjoyed the time spent on his tractor. He referred to himself as a “professional” driver. Jackie was a member of Macedonia Masonic Lodge # 239 where he had served as past master. He loved all kids, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren who referred to him as “Papa Jack”.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Gail Watkins Horton; 2 daughters, Angie Sanders and her husband, David, Nicole Sullivan and her husband, Ashley and a son, Josh Allen and his wife, Laura; 5 grandchildren, Travis (Tiffany) Sanders, Chase (Torrie) Sanders, Mallory (Jake) McPherson, Jared (Gracie) McPherson and Walker Allen; 7 great grandchildren, Millie Sanders, Brittain Sanders, Chloe Sanders, Hinley Sanders, Charleigh McPherson, Bellamy Rice and Sawyer McPherson; his siblings, Dawn (Bob) Reece, Bryant Horton, Karen Horton and Jane (Johnny) Starr, a number of nieces and nephews and his canine companion, Stella. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Rhonda Moore.

The family will greet visitors, Thursday evening, October 24, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at BAKER CONFERENCE CENTER, 105 North Minor Street, Kershaw, S.C. 29067.

A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held on Friday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of MOUNT PISGAH BAPTIST CHURCH, 2140 McBee Highway, Jefferson, S.C. 29718 where he was a faithful member. Rev. Terry Corder and Rev. Dennis Miller will officiate.

The burial will immediately follow the service in the church cemetery with military honors. Rev. David Sanders will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, 2140 McBee Highway, Jefferson, S.C. 29718.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.