James Robert Horton

James Robert Horton, age 88, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at his daughter’s home in Dallas, Texas.

James Robert Horton was born on April 23, 1938, in Eubank, Kentucky, to C.B. Horton and Mary Thompson Horton. He was raised in Science Hill, Kentucky, until moving to Nacogdoches County, Texas, in 1955. He graduated from Central Heights High School in 1957 and established the roots that would remain for the rest of his life.

In 1965, Jim married the love of his life, Paula Wright. Together, they shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage, building a loving family and a life deeply rooted in East Texas. Nacogdoches was not only his home but also the community where he spent his adult life, forging lasting friendships and becoming part of the fabric of the town he cherished. For 50 years, Jim worked in the tire and gasoline business in Nacogdoches before retiring and embarking on a second career with Stephen F. Austin State University in the Grounds and Transportation Department. This chapter of his life brought him immense joy, allowing him to do meaningful work while having plenty of fun along the way.

More than anything, Jim loved people. He never met a stranger and possessed a rare gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and cared for. Compassion came naturally to him, and he often shared that his goal was simple: to help at least one person every day. His kindness left a lasting impression on countless people, and his legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.

Those who knew him will remember his generous heart, his unwavering willingness to help others, and the quiet example he set through a life of integrity, compassion, and service.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, C.B. Horton and Mary Thompson Horton; and by two of his children, Melissa Horton and James Horton.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Paula Horton; his daughter, Elizabeth Horton Engle; his grandsons, Mark Engle and wife Michelle, and Bryant Engle; his great-grandchildren, Tucker Engle and Madelyn Engle; his brother, Clyde Horton; his sister, Mary Horton; and numerous extended family members and friends.

Jim lived through extraordinary times and carried with him the values of his Kentucky upbringing and the spirit of East Texas. He was a man of strong convictions who deeply loved his family and remained connected to the place he called home for more than 70 years. Those who knew him will remember him in their own way and carry forward the memories they shared throughout his life.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Jim’s earthly journey has come to an end and that he is now at peace. They are sustained by the promise of scripture, which reflects the faith and hope by which Jim lived: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” --Isaiah

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at Bonita Methodist Church in Central Heights, Texas.

Honorary pallbearers: Mark Engle, Bryant Engle, Derek Grant, Jim Ward, Mike Ward, Gary Atkins, Bobby Boyett, Don Seelbach, Pedro Vasquez, and Johnny Cardenas.

The Horton family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who provided compassionate care and comfort during Jim’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Bonita Methodist Church; P.O. Box 632701; Nacogdoches, TX 75963.

Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences.

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

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