Master Trooper John Sumter Horton, 42

Master Trooper John Sumter Horton, 42, passed away in the line of duty January 3, 2022. John was born on November 17, 1979 in Rutherfordton, NC, to Leslie and Martha Horton of Forest City, NC.

John bravely served as a Master Trooper for the NC Highway Patrol for 15 years. He was a past member of Holly Springs Baptist Church and an active member of Drury Dobbins Baptist Church.

Besides his parents, those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife and high school sweetheart, Ashley Houser Horton; children, Liliana, Sumter, Gunner, Slade, Avalyn, and Huxley Horton; siblings, Briana Reid, Nick Horton, and Joseph Horton and many other extended family members.

The funeral service was held January 7 at the Foundation Performing Arts Center at Isothermal Community College in Spindale with full patrol honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the benevolent fund for the Family of Master Trooper John S. Horton at the State Employees Credit Union.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.