Elwyn John “Johnny” Hornsby, Jr. died peacefully at his home on Sunday morning, June 28, 2024, surrounded by his family and his dogs, and wearing a Cleveland baseball t-shirt. John was born on October 12, 1949, in New Roads, LA, to Elwyn John Hornsby, Sr. and Audrey LeBeau Hornsby.
John adored his family. He is survived by his cherished wife, Gwendolyn Ann Boyle Hornsby, the love of his life, with whom he shared 44 beautiful years and their sons Christopher, Jack (Kristin), and Josh (Heather Blees). He is also survived by his sister Linda Dawson (Mark), brother Jeff Hornsby, sister-in-law Margaret Boyle Westmoreland (Cody) and nephew Finley who affectionately called him Paw Paw. John is preceded in death by his parents in addition to his favorite uncle, Kenneth “Butch” LeBeau.
John, esteemed mathematics professor and author of numerous textbooks, leaves behind a profound legacy in the field of mathematics education. Born and raised in New Roads, John dedicated his life to teaching and writing, nurturing a passion for mathematics that began during his freshman year at Louisiana State University in 1967.
John's academic journey led him to LSU and then Southeastern Louisiana University for graduate school, culminating in a fulfilling career that spanned over decades. He taught in Louisiana high schools and at the University of New Orleans before retiring from the University in 1997 to embark on a new chapter as a full-time mathematics textbook author. His collaborations with Marge Lial brought forth a series of influential textbooks, starting with his first publication in 1990. Over the years, John coauthored over 100 editions ranging from beginning algebra to precalculus, with Pearson Education as his current publisher.
Beyond the classroom and textbook pages, John's interests extended to the history of mathematics, integrating graphing calculators into curricula, and showcasing the beauty of mathematics through his engaging talks such as, "Math Class Goes to Hollywood." These talks, featuring scenes from movies and television, highlighted the diverse ways mathematics intersects with everyday life.
John's dedication to mathematics was also reflected in his personalized Louisiana license plates—"MATHBKS," "ALGEBRA,” and “TRIG”—and his encouragement to students to embrace the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' motto: "Do Math, and You Can Do Anything."
John loved few things more than his family and friends, mathematics, the Cleveland Indians, and the Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
While our hearts mourn the loss, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace. The family deeply appreciates the loving care provided by Brenda Cunningham, Tammy Colston, and Trish Cocran who John referred to as “his angels.”
John’s legacy is one of inspiration and dedication. His contributions to mathematics education will continue to influence and inspire future generations. He will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him and by the countless students and educators touched by his work.
But most of all, he was a good man.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services at Grace Funeral Home, 450 Holy Trinity Drive, Covington, LA, 70433 on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 1:00 PM with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the services in St. Lazarus of Bethany Memorial Garden under the direction and care of Grace Funeral Home.
