Gary Lee Horton

Gary Lee Horton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at his home in North Canton, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Born December 23, 1938 in Beach City, Ohio, Gary graduated from Canton South High School in 1956. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard and was stationed on Annette Island, Alaska, where he met the love of his life, Shirley Bjorgen. They returned to Ohio to build a life grounded in love, hard work, and horsepower.

If you drove a Ford in Canton between the '60s and '90s, chances are Gary kept it running. A skilled Service Manager at several area Ford dealerships, he was known for his deep mechanical knowledge and his honest dealings with people. His passion for engines extended to the drag strip, where he raced the legendary Mustang Boss 429 “Going Thing” and once held the IHRA C-Gas quarter-mile record.

Off the track, Gary was quick with a joke, a story, and a smile. A life-long member of Zion Lutheran Church, his faith was strong, his generosity boundless, and his service to others unwavering, whether volunteering at the Church Food Pantry, offering comfort to veterans in hospice, or simply helping others with everyday tasks.

Gary was preceded in passing by his parents, George and Arlene Horton, and brothers, Keith and Mike.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Shirley; brother, Ronnie Horton and sister, Mary Beth Richmond; and five children: Christopher Horton, David (Zeineff) Horton, Jennifer Elkins, Sharon (Rick) Stout, and Johanna (Robert) Henderson. He was a proud grandfather to Kyle Elkins, Kaytee McCorkle, Natalee and Christian Henderson, Brandon and Brooke Stout, and Kody Horton; and great-grandfather to Kylee and Atlas McCorkle, Anderson, Abel, and McKenlee Elkins, and Asher Stout.

Calling hours will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, 349 Lindy Lane in North Canton on Tuesday, May 6, from 5–7 pm, and again on Wednesday, May 7, from 12-1 pm. A celebration of Gary’s life will follow on Wednesday at 1 pm. All who knew him are warmly invited to share stories, laughter, and love in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zion Lutheran Church’s Food Pantry, a cause close to Gary’s heart at zion-nc.com. A special thank you is extended to Advantage Hospice, especially Melissa, nurse Angelique, and Jennifer.