Dean Horne

Harold “Dean” Horne Jr., age 62, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Nacogdoches Medical Center following a brief illness.

Dean was born February 7, 1964, in Hemphill, Texas, to Barbara Jean (Kloecker) Horne and Harold Dean Horne, Sr.

Dean was an avid sports fan and a gifted athlete. He played baseball and football throughout school, and received numerous awards for his accomplishments on the field. Later in life, he traded in his cleats to become a spectator instead, and he enjoyed spending time cheering on the Houston Texans and Astros any chance he had. As a young man, Dean also spent time raising and showing steers at various East Texas livestock shows.

Dean began his career at Brown & Root by working heavy construction projects with his dad, but he quickly proved himself a competent hand, and he was promoted to foreman with his own crew. During his time at Brown & Root, he enjoyed traveling across our beautiful country and exploring new places. He also cherished his trips to the beach with his mother, sister, and cousins and all of the wonderful memories they made.

Although his fifth grade teacher reported that he “talked too much,” Dean primarily lived his life as a quiet, gentle soul. He was a friend to everyone, and he loved making others smile. Dean always had a kind word and a joke to share with his friends. His tender spirit put everyone at ease, and his steady presence made him a comforting listener. From the time he killed his first buck around age six, Dean had a passion for the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, especially with his dad, and he always appreciated the grand beauty of the East Texas Piney Woods.

Dean was kind-hearted, loving, and protective brother, son, and friend. He adored his older sister Dena, and he thought his two baby sisters hung the moon. He never failed to tell his parents he loved them, and he was such a tremendous joy and blessing in their lives. He will be dearly missed, but the family takes great comfort knowing that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18.

His survivors include his mother, Barbara Horne of San Augustine, Texas; father, Harold Horne, Sr. of Diana, Texas; sisters and brothers-in-law, Chastiti and Tony Houck, and Chandra and Jarod Bonine; and nieces and nephews, Presley Houck, Payne Houck, Barrett Houck, Cullen Bonine, and Kate Bonine, all of Houston, Texas. 

He was preceded in death by his sister, Dena Kaye Horne; and his stepmother, Peggie Horne.

Graveside services are set for 3:00 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Wilson Cemetery, located off Hwy. 87 North in Milam, Texas.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas, prior to a procession leaving for the cemetery.

Pallbearers: Tommy Click, Bill Jackson, Chad Elumbaugh, Tyler Elumbaugh, Jerry Gilcrease, Cullen Bonine, and Barrett Houck.

Visit www.wymanrobertsfh.com for memories and condolences.

Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.

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