Kenneth Horton

Kenneth Horton, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his daughters, on January 20, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on July 10, 1940, in Queens, New York, Kenneth lived a life defined by kindness, service, devotion to family, and faith. He was known for his gentle spirit, strong work ethic, quiet generosity, sense of humor, and steady presence. Ken had a rare ability to make people feel seen, welcomed, and valued, and his warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Ken proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1984, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. During his distinguished military career, he held Top Secret clearance and served as a Navigator-Bombardier and as an Air Operations Officer. He served his country during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped his discipline, leadership, and deep sense of responsibility. While serving, he earned his degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning, excellence, and self-improvement.

After retiring from the Air Force, Ken opened Shorthorn Liquors near Saginaw, Texas. What began as a business quickly became a place of connection and community. Ken was known not simply as a store owner, but as a trusted friend to his employees and customers. He quietly helped friends and others through difficult times (often anonymously) and gave generously without expectation of recognition. His kindness and generosity were instinctive, sincere, and deeply rooted in who he was.

Above all, Ken treasured his family. He was a devoted and deeply loving father who was a constant source of strength, encouragement, and unwavering support. He is survived by his daughters, Cindy Karnes and her husband Matt, and Stephanie Lawson and her husband Stephen; and by his grandchildren Brandon Lawson, Katelyn Lawson, and Zachary Karnes, all who brought him immense pride and joy.

He is also survived by his longtime companion and dear friend, Elaine McConathy, who stood faithfully by his side, and by Jennifer May, whom he loved as a daughter, along with her husband Bryan and their daughter Karis, whom Ken cherished. He is also survived by his wife, Lorraine Horton, with whom he shared a unique and enduring bond of friendship and family.

Ken is survived by his sisters Ellen Ankelman of New York; Diane and Bill Ferro of Florida; and Tammy and David Goehring of Virginia, along with numerous nieces and nephews across the country whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John “Jack” Horton and Hope Horton.

A man of faith, Ken took great comfort in his relationship with God and lived with a quiet assurance rooted in that truth. In his free time, he found joy in a good round of golf, betting on the ponies, going to the movies, and playing games with loved ones. He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events. He loved good food, whether dining out or cooking in the kitchen, and treasured sharing great meals with those he cared about. He kept himself fit, delighted in a good joke or playful prank, and took simple pleasure in watching birds, squirrels, and the natural world around him. Disciplined and hardworking, yet deeply compassionate, Ken delighted in loving people well and showering others with affection. He leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, faith, and love.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, located at 4216 S. Bowen Road, Arlington, Texas, 76016, on February 20, 2026, starting at 1:00 pm.

Inurnment will follow at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, located at 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, Texas, 75211, at 3:00 pm on the same day.