Bobby Horton

Born on August 2, 1945, in Hollandale, Mississippi, Bobby was the son of Norman and Prebol Horton. He graduated from Hollandale High School and from Mississippi State with a master’s degree in Agronomy.  He proudly served his country in Vietnam in 1968-69 in the US Army with the 173^rd unit out of Greenwood, Mississippi.

Bobby’s career began as an extension service agricultural county agent in Tunica County and later moved to Mississippi State Penitentiary in Parchman, Mississippi as a Farm Coordinator. Bobby then went to Hollandale Seed and Delinting Company, where he helped develop an acid seed delinting process for cotton seed. He moved to Cleveland in 1978 to work at Pfizer Genetics Elevator, which he later bought and turned into Big River Seed Company. Bobby was proud to serve the agricultural community for 43 years through Big River.

Bobby was active in the community and business world. He was involved with the Mississippi Seedmen’s Association and even served as president of the Parent Teacher Association at Parks Elementary School. He was a cherished member of St. Luke’s Methodist Church, where he was proud to be the “keeper of the keys.”

A man of many talents and interests, Bobby was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was happy to share his knowledge and expertise with any and all. A cowboy and a farmer at heart, he carried the values of yesteryear throughout all facets of his life. Bobby was thoughtful, dependable, and kind. In 2009, Bobby rode his horse, Vegas, on the Best of America by Horseback Trail Ride from Mexico to Canada. This ride took place from April to September of that year. Bobby was one of only two riders that rode a single horse the 2,192.4 miles of the trip.

Bobby was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Prebol Horton, his brother Kenny, and his first wife, Bonnie Sue of 55 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Kay, his brother, Billy Paul (Carol), sons Brad (Marcia), and Jason (DeLina), granddaughters Ashley Braden (David), Susan Elizabeth, Kelly Anne, Madelyn (Kwinn), and grandson Sam.

            The family would like to give a special thank you to the wonderful sitters that took such excellent care of Bobby during his illness. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gideon’s International, CARES Animal Shelter in Clarksdale, or the charity of your choice.