James E. Horne "Sonny"

James E. Horne “Sonny”, age 79, of Mount Holly, North Carolina, went home to be with the Lord while surrounded by his family on Sunday, May 12, 2019 while at Gaston Hospice’s Robin Johnson House in Dallas, North Carolina.  The son of the late Leonard and Alberta Horne, he was born in Dillon County, South Carolina on October 8, 1939.  He was a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Dillon, South Carolina.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by one son, James Steven Horne; one sister, Ruth Norris; and one brother, Doug Horne.

James was known for his infectious laugh and one-of-a-kind personality. He will be remembered for being full of love and bringing joy to those around him.  Always ready with a smile, laugh, and hug, he was an avid NASCAR fan, enjoyed fishing, and spending time with his pets. Most of all, he loved spending time with his grandchildren. 

Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 58 years, Doris Beasley Horne; three children, Lisa Wilson, Dixie Mitchell (Curtis) and Scott Horne (Cathy); three sisters, Frances Bullard, Mae Ann Tuthero and Sherry Payne; and four brothers, Leroy Horne, Jerry Horne, Leonard Horne, Jr. and Mike Horne.  James is also survived by twelve grandchildren, Nicole Mitchell (Kevin), Matthew Wilson (Bea), Wendi Wilson (Craig), Aaron Wilson, Steven Horne (Amanda), Justin Mitchell, Savannah Mitchell, Luke Horne, Amanda Horne, Joshua Horne, Daniel Horne and Taylor Todd; nine great- grandchildren, Rebekah Horne, Samantha Mitchell, Hunter Mitchell, Camden Creasman, Ava Wilson, Blake Wilson, Zachary Wilson, Bentley Horne and Bentley Todd; numerous nieces and nephews; and his canine companion, Bear. 

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Lowell Church of God, 804 West First Street in Lowell, with Rev. Joe Heffner and Rev. Danny R. Shortridge officiating.  Interment will follow at Forest Lawn West Cemetery in Charlotte.  The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the church. 

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Horne’s memory are asked to consider, Gaston Hospice, P.O. Box 3984, Gastonia, North Carolina 28054 or by visiting www.gastonhospice.org.