Jim Horner

Born January 12, 1942, in Brownsville, PA, he lived in Chester Twp. for the last 54 years. Jim will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who had the privilege to know him.

Jim served as a Police Officer in Cleveland Heights for 25 years, retiring in 1995. In the last 15 years of his career, he also served with the Caribbean Task Force and the DEA, forming many long-lasting relationships during his tenure. After retirement, Jim continued his commitment to public service as a Bailiff with the Geauga County Courts.

Beyond his work, Jim was widely known as a great jokester and storyteller—funny, one of a kind, and able to draw people in with a presence that kept them listening. Because of the way he invested in others, someone once said he “raised many men,” a sentiment that reflects the steady care and generosity he offered throughout his life. He had friends in all parts of the country, and he carried a rare gift for treating everyone as if they were family.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, and he found particular joy at his hunting camp in PA. He also had a remarkable gift for knowledge and recall. If you needed any random trivia question answered, Jim was your guy—always ready with an answer, and often one that sparked another conversation and another laugh.

Jim was also a co-founder of the Pekin Road Rod and Gun Club, alongside his “Bro-Friends,” George and Richie. Together, they created a special bond that carried their shared love of hunting, fishing, and the outdoors into another generation.

With his unmistakable Irish charm and quick sense of humor, Jim brought laughter, good-natured practical jokes, and friendship to his coworkers at Muni Court. The friendships he formed there lasted well beyond the workplace. He was especially proud of his Irish heritage and carried that pride with him throughout his life.

Jim also cherished the more than 55-year friendship he shared with his French-Canadian friends, whom he met on a hunting trip. He loved his time in Canada with them, and their friendship was filled with laughter, unforgettable memories, and plenty of thrill-seeking adventures.

Above all, Jim was a dad who loved being right in the middle of the action. He could often be found in the yard tossing a ball with his children and their friends, always ready to join in the fun. Jim was truly a kid at heart, and that youthful spirit, playful nature, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those closest to him knew that Jim’s love was most clearly seen in the time he devoted to family, especially his grandkids. His kindness was not merely spoken of; it was lived—he would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. In that steady, giving spirit, and in the warmth, he brought to every room, Jim leaves a legacy of a life deeply cherished and generously shared.

Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years Mary Jane (nee Gambatese); daughter Kathleen Parrino; son Jim (Michelle); grandchildren Casey Horner and Sophia Parrino; dear friends George and Susan Lashley; many cousins, including Jackie Ellis (Steve), who was more like a sister to him; and other extended family and friends.

No services are scheduled at this time.