“I’ve stayed true to the faith” were the words he spoke upon hearing that he would shortly be leaving this world and going to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And faithful he was even at 101 years of age. Faithfulness to the Lord, his wife, and his family.
Horace was born in Maysville, Oklahoma and passed away in LaGrange, Texas. His early years were spent in Oklahoma and Texas. During his high school years he learned how to use the linotype machine which served him well all of his life with his career being at the Houston Chronicle for over 40 years.. He loved his country and was proud of his military service during World War II.
Horace never forgot his roots of struggle and hardship during the Great Depression and this experience enabled him to become the compassionate and generous person he was. He spent his entire adult life helping others and often had relatives come and live with him and his family until they could get “back on their feet”. A renowned story teller, he kept many enthralled by his adventurous World War II stories and the singing of old songs.
He married the love of his life Dorothy in 1946 and together they provided a stable and happy, active life with their children, Michael, Rodger and Janet. When the church doors were open, the Beck family was there!
Upon retirement, Horace and Dorothy moved to Flatonia to enjoy their retirement years. He loved this area and often stated that the kindest most caring people lived here. Their ministry of helping others never ended and he was still encouraging others to his last breath.
Horace’s strength and faithfulness to the things of God was strengthened by his favorite Bible verse, Zechariah 4:6 “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit” says the Lord Almighty.
Horace was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, son Michael and great granddaughter Chloe Elizabeth Andrist. He is survived by his son Rodger, his wife Mae Lynn, daughter Janet and her husband Thomas. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.
Horace completed his mission of “Staying true to the faith” and his legacy of loving our Lord and Savior and serving others remains within the hearts of his family.
Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.smithfuneralhomeflatonia.com
Smith Funeral Home – 128 East 5th St. – Flatonia Texas 78941 – Phone 361-865-3311
