Edward Marvin (Ed) Horton, 86, passed away May 22, 2024, at HaysMed in Hays, KS. He was born July 29, 1937, in Hutchinson, KS, to the late Vernon A., and Clara E. (Moore) Horton. He was united in marriage to Sharon L. Byers, on December 6, 1969 in Topeka, KS. A bond that lasted more than 54 years. Sharon affectionately refers to him as her Hunka-Munka Man.
Ed dedicated his life to helping and serving others. Kind and generous, selfless and quick to forgive, he found the silver lining in every situation. Always quick with a smile, Ed will be remembered for his dry wit, groan-inducing puns, and his beloved dad jokes
He was a 1955 graduate of Hutchinson, KS, and also attended Hutchinson Community College. He received his Master’s Degree in Social work from Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. He spent nearly 40 years working for the State of Kansas as a social worker for the Dept. of Social and Rehabilitation Services. Upon retirement, Ed and Sharon purchased an RV and relocated to the Missouri Ozarks to enjoy their later years together.
After retirement, Ed remained active in the community until his final days. He was a longtime member of the Optimist Club in both Hays, and W. Plains. And the Masonic Lodge #195 of Hays, and the Mt. Zion Lodge, in W. Plains. Including serving 1 year as Master Mason at Hays Lodge #195. During the Vietnam War, he served his country as a member of the Kansas Air National Guard, and was a member of American Legion Post 23, W. Plains. Ed was guided by his faith. Family and friends were most important to him. He embodied the message of Christ in his words and actions. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Hays, and The Bridge Church of W. Plains. Many summers were spent fishing and camping at the Kraus Family pond, and many state parks throughout Kansas. He became interested in genealogy, spending countless hours extensively researching and cataloguing his family history. As a young man, he played the trombone, and was most fond of Jazz, Big Band, and Classical music.
He is survived by his sweetheart and love of his life, Sharon, Hays; daughter Diana Byers, Clovis, NM; sons Kent (Susan) Willming, Hays, and Michael Horton, Spokane Valley, WA. One grandson, Adam Marrs, Washington, DC.
He was preceded in death by son Joseph Leroy (J.L.) Willming; and his brothers Vernon Horton, Jr., and Michael E. Horton. To honor Ed's life and accomplishments, a memorial open house will be held on June 1st at the First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th St., Hays, KS 67601, from 10 AM to 1 PM, to celebrate a life well-lived and to bid farewell to a remarkable individual whose memory will continue to inspire.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Call for Help of Ellis County, or to the organization of your choice in care of the Funeral Home.
Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601
Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Ed's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com