John Evans Horton

John Evans Horton, 89, of Kershaw, S.C., passed away peacefully on Monday evening, August 10, 2026, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Born on April 1, 1937, in Kershaw, S.C., he was the son of the late Richard Horton and Louise Whitley Bowers. John was a graduate of Kershaw High School and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was also a member of Abney Masonic Lodge #211.

John worked for US Plywood before beginning a long career with the State of South Carolina as a meat inspector with Clemson University, from which he later retired.

A man who found great joy in life, John was an avid boater and was happiest when he was out on the water. He also enjoyed traveling, reading, and tending to his garden. Above all, John cherished his family and the many years they shared together.

John leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years, Beverly Justice Horton; two daughters, Leah Hughes and Eve Martin; five grandchildren, Matthew Hughes, Joshua Hughes, Kayla Martin, Neely Martin, and Morgan Odom; and four great-grandchildren, Olivia Hughes, Hudson Hughes, William Odom, and Logan Deese, with another great-grandchild on the way.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his son, Richard “Chris” Horton.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of Center Grove Baptist Church, Kershaw, S.C. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary, with Rev. Dr. Jason Moss officiating.

The burial will follow in Kershaw City Cemetery with military honors.

Memorials in memory of Mr. Horton may be made to Kershaw Second Baptist Church, 7737 Kershaw Camden Highway, Kershaw, S.C. 29067, or Center Grove Baptist Church, 6028 Center Grove Road, Kershaw, S.C. 29067.

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