Ronald G. Horner

With heavy hearts uplifted with gratitude and faith we announce the passing of a remarkable man, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Ronald Gray Horner, who departed this world on January 22nd 2024, peacefully in his home surrounded by the prayer and love of his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a distinguished retired military officer whose life was defined by integrity and unwavering faith.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday March 10th 2pm at First Baptist Church, 202 Summit Drive Sanford NC 27330. Family will receive visitors following the service in the church parlor. 

Ronald dedicated 63 years of his life to a love story that will forever inspire those who knew him. He and his beloved wife, Betty Hales Horner, shared a bond that withstood the tests of time, creating a foundation of love and companionship that served as an example to their children and all who were fortunate enough to witness their love.

A true soldier for life, he served his country with honor and distinction for 32 years in the Army, rising from a private to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. The Army became a transformative force in his life, providing him with the support and structure needed to pursue higher education. Undeterred by the challenges that military life presented, Ronald worked diligently to earn a master's degree, a testament to his determination and intellect. His military career was marked by dedication, discipline, and a sense of duty that took him, Betty and their children to various corners of the world, leaving a positive impact wherever they went.

Ronald was not only a man of service but also a man of profound faith. His Christian beliefs guided his actions, providing a moral compass that shaped his character. His faith and commitment to integrity and kindness resonated in every aspect of his life, earning him the respect and admiration of those around him. 

Family was the cornerstone of Ronald’s life. He and Betty were blessed with the joy of raising five children, and his role as a father and pop was nothing short of exemplary. His children remember him not just as a provider but as a caring and involved parent who instilled in them the values of love, compassion, and perseverance. His legacy lives on through the lessons he imparted and the love he shared. His long standing advice to his children was to “keep the faith” and “always do the right thing”.

He was greeted in Heaven by his parents William Horace Horner and Virginia Warren Horner, his brothers William, Bud, Donald, and Kenneth, grandson Ronald Gray Horner III, granddaughter Jessica Lauren Horner and many loving brothers and sisters in law

Ronald  is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Betty Hales Horner. He has provided the world with a beautiful legacy in his 5 children and their families; daughter Pamela Horner Johnson (husband Roy); son Ron Horner II (wife Cheryl); son Perry Horner (wife Sindy); son Matthew Horner (wife Ani); daughter Elizabeth Horner Oldham (husband Ross). His legacy will continue to ripple through the world with his 18 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. As God was calling his servant home, we all found solace in the arrival of his newest great-granddaughter, Lillian Pearl Flanagan; a radiant symbol of hope and new beginnings. His family is grateful for the loving and unwavering support from his two remaining and very special sisters-in-law, Sue Hales and Geri Hales.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Tunnels to Towers Foundation www.t2t.org 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 and/or Alzheimer's Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter www.alz.org/nc 5171 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 101, Raleigh, NC 27612 in honor of Ronald’s commitment to making the world a better place.