of Marshall, AR
August 24, 1923 - May 31, 2021
Ralph Dwight Horton, age 97 of Marshall, Arkansas passed from this life on Monday, May 31st, 2021 at Highland Court in Marshall, Arkansas. He was born in the Canaan community of Searcy County, Arkansas on August 24th, 1923 to Alex Leander "Lee" Horton and Fannie Mae Leslie Horton.
Ralph was WWII Veteran of the United States Army. He served honorably in the European Theater and was eventually captured. He was held as a prisoner of war by the German Army. After his liberation by the Allied Forces, he was awarded the following decorations and citations; WWII Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, EAME Theater Ribbon and two Bronze Service Stars. Ralph was the last surviving POW from WWII in the Searcy County area. Upon returning from the war, Ralph began working as a brick and stone mason with his brother A.G. In 1947 Ralph married Pearl LaVina Hardin. They enjoyed 59 years of marriage before her passing in 2006. Ralph spent his retirement years fishing, spending time with family, drinking coffee with friends and cheering the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Fannie Mae Horton; sisters, Bea Duncan and Marie Switzer; and brothers, Glen Horton and A.G. Horton.
While no children were born of their marriage, Ralph and Pearl enjoyed the company of many nieces and nephews. Survivors include Jo Duncan Watts of Marshall, Rosemary Horton O'Bryan of Basehor, KS, Jerry Lee Horton (Mary) of Kansas City, KS, Ronnie Jo Switzer of Featherville, ID, Judy Horton Garner (Carol) of Booneville, AR; and sister-in-law, Opal Hardin Coffman of Marshall.
Funeral services for Ralph will be 11:00 AM Friday, June 4th, 2021 at Roller-Coffman Chapel in Marshall, Arkansas with Bro. Shirl Williams officiating. Visitation will be 6:00 till 8:00 PM, Thursday, June 3rd, 2021 in the chapel. Burial will be in Canaan Cemetery where Ralph will be laid to rest with military honors. Pallbearers will include members of the VFW in Marshall, Arkansas.
Sign Guestbook
13 Condolence(s)
David Barnett
Thursday, June 3, 2021
I am saddened to hear of Ralph’s passing. Sadly, due to health will not be able to attend. I was fortuned to work for Ralph and AG on several jobs around Harrison they did for my dad. Ralph was always so funny and AG filled in the blanks for Ralph. I feel blessed to have spent time with him right prior to my entering the Army. I will never forget Ralph.
Dave Barnett
JoAnn Reed
Thursday, June 3, 2021
I am so sorry about Ralph! He was such a nice guy to talk to when I saw him at the Senior Center!
He and Jack are together again and catching up where they left off when Ralph went to Highland!
Ralph was a wonderful man who will really be missed! Guys like him are so hard to find! Thank you for being my Friend Ralph!
Dondawa Treat
Thursday, June 3, 2021
I got to know Ralph while I was working at Highland and I will always remember our talks, he always made me smile. You will be greatly missed.
Prayers for the family
Holly Kemp
Thursday, June 3, 2021
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE BLESS YOU.
Tonya Bazany
Thursday, June 3, 2021
I had the honor of caring for Ralph during his time at Highland Court. He had a heart of gold and stole the hearts of many, including mine. I’ll always remember his smile and the gratitude he showed everyone who knew him.
Ralph is a true Hero who sacrificed selflessly for his country. A simple “Thank You†was not enough so I showed my gratitude in the care I gave him.
Ralph, you’re no longer with us on earth but you will be forever etched in our hearts🇺🇸♥ï¸ðŸ‡ºðŸ‡¸
Brian & Reanna Ragland
Wednesday, June 2, 2021
So sorry for your loss.
Darryl Treat
Wednesday, June 2, 2021
My condolences to all the family. We owe thanks to Mr. Horton and so many other veterans for the freedom we enjoy. He sacrificed for all of us.
Coy & Sue Horton
Wednesday, June 2, 2021
We have known Ralph all of our lives. He was a very fun and caring person. He will be missed . will miss his war stories. our sympathy and prayers are with the family.
Kay Branscum and Pauline Blough
Wednesday, June 2, 2021
So sorry to hear about Ralph. We always loved visiting with Ralph and he always had a smile and loved seeing you. Prayers for his family.
Shirley J. Gray
Tuesday, June 1, 2021
My thoughts and prayers goes out to all friends and family. Ralph was a very sweet man.
Eddie and Pam Cannada
Tuesday, June 1, 2021
Our deepest sympathy. So sorry.
Wesley and Loretta Smith
Tuesday, June 1, 2021
Very sorry to hear that Ralph has passed. I always counted Ralph a true friend. I never saw him without his smile.
James and Leada Horton
Tuesday, June 1, 2021
So sorry to hear about Ralph. He was a wonderful man and always had a smile for us. Our love and prayers to all the family.