Harold P Horton

Harold PreSton Horton

1933 – 2024

Devoted Husband – Educator – Civic Supporter

Mr. Harold Preston Horton was born on June 20, 1933, to the late Henry and Annie Mae Horton. He was preceded in death by his parents as a child and was raised by a loving and caring grandmother, Mama Eva.

Harold was educated in the public schools of Athens. He graduated from Albany State College (now University) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. After graduation, Harold was drafted in the Army for two years. Later, he received a Master’s Degree in Education and an Ed.S. in Administration and Supervision from the University of Georgia. Mr. Horton was a middle grades teacher in Madison and Clarke Counties. He completed the Management Development Program with the Citizens and Southern National Bank and was promoted to a banking officer. After serving as Principal of Lyons Middle School, Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School, and Chase Street Elementary School, Mr. Horton retired in 1993.

Harold met the love of his life, Mary Ann Haney, during the late ‘50s while visiting home from college. A love story of dedication and marriage developed and lasted for over 60 years. Also a true lover of animals, their family grew with at least two perfect dogs, Tiggs and Mitts, and a beautiful talking parrot, Jerry Buster.

Everyone who knew Harold, knew how much he loved traveling (with Mary Ann and friends), music, dance, and yard work. Harold was blessed and proud to be surrounded by two beautiful families: the Hortons and the Barnetts. He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Mary Ann; sister, Margrette Horton; cousin, Anita Coleman; niece, Theordis (Don) Lake; nephew, Dontae Lake; and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A truly dedicated civic supporter of public education, Mr. Horton provided financial support and physical labor toward helping students achieve their chosen goals. His motto was, “A strong, well-prepared mind leads to a strong, productive future.”