Raymond F. Horn Sr. passed away on May 23, 2026, at the age of 91. He was surrounded by his family under the tender care of NHC Greenville. Born on October 13, 1934, he lived a long life marked by devotion to his family, faithful service to others, and a steady, generous spirit that left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Raymond ‘Ray’ was a resident of Danbury, CT, from 1944-1982, living on Rockwood Lane at first with his parents and then later building a home next door for his family. He was never short of stories about his memories and experiences while living there, surrounded by nature and the community that loved him well. He assisted his father in running Kitty Horn’s Store on State and Main St and later Horn’s Variety Store on Franklin and Main. He also served as a police officer for the Danbury Police Department, as both a training sergeant and liaison officer for the court. 

Ray served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War era. He joined the Navy during the war and was bound for Korea when the conflict came to an end. Afterward, his ship completed a world tour, an experience he spoke of often and one that remained an important part of his life story.

 Ray met and married Kathryn ‘Kay’ Miller Horn, the love of his life. Together they became very involved in the Worldwide Marriage Encounter movement, empowering couples to seek God, prioritize their marriage and family, and to communicate effectively. They were members of St.Joseph Catholic Church in Danbury. Ray studied in the Diocese of Bridgeport Deaconate program from 1977 to 1980.

Ray and Kay moved their family to Narragansett, RI in 1982. At this time, he worked for the State of Rhode Island, DCYF, as an investigator, a position that provided him an opportunity to make a difference in many children’s lives. Ray and Kay were active members of St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church in Narragansett. It was here, at age 50+, that he began a journey of healthy living; he was often seen riding his bike or walking miles through the town. This example had a great impact on many, who realize you’re never too old to work towards a vision. It was during this time he also completed his GED, a lifelong goal of Ray’s.

 Upon retirement, Ray and Kay moved to Dunedin, FL for a period of time. There they enjoyed the beach, sunshine, and a community of friends, as well as connecting with Burns’ and DeFillippis’ families, relatives of both. They enjoyed many days watching the dolphins and sunsets together.

 Ray and Kay moved to Bluffton, SC to be nearer to their children, enjoying the many events and special occasions, especially with their oldest son and his wife. They were often seen traveling in their golf cart, sneaking off to have ice cream sundaes for dinner. It was here that Kay became ill, and they spent her last months at NHC Bluffton. 

Ray then moved to Easley, SC to reside in his daughter and son-in-law's home. Though he grieved his beloved, he continued to share the legacy they had built with encouraging family gatherings and ‘making memories’. His 90th birthday party will be remembered as a great celebration by those who attended. 

Those who knew Raymond knew a loving, kind, and generous man. He was known as a gentle giant, selfless in the way he lived for his wife and family. He was often ready with a dad joke and a helping hand, and he had a gift for solving problems with resourcefulness and determination, seeming able to fix almost anything with sticks and bubblegum. Raymond found joy in the simple and enduring pleasures of life. He loved his family deeply and never missed a chance to be with them. He enjoyed bicycling, walking, and spending time outdoors. He was a sun worshiper, an avid reader of World War II history, and had an incredible love for animals.

 In his final three years, he continued to live actively, enjoying bowling and attending hockey games, rodeos, and baseball games with his family. He also volunteered at Hagood Mill in Pickens, South Carolina, where he served alongside his good friend Rhonda Buckheister.

 Among the sweetest memories his family carries forward is the way he delighted his grandchildren with an always full drawer of Tootsie Pops. That small, loving gesture reflected the kind of grandfather he was—thoughtful, fun, and always ready to brighten someone’s day. 

Raymond was preceded in death by his wife, Kay Miller Horn, and by his parents, Frank and Kitty Horn. He is survived by his children, Raymond Horn Jr. (Susan), Suzanne Nelson (Mike), Michael Horn (Sodeli), Matthew Horn (Brandy), and Katie Cronk (Charles). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Ryan Horn, Michael Horn, Paul Nelson, Mark Nelson, David Nelson, Madison Young, Brayden Young, Savannah Horn, and Mia Horn; and his great-grandchildren, Landon Sparano, Thayer Horn, Rowan Horn, and Liam Horn. The love he gave his family was steady, protective, and often a quiet force defined by lifelong sacrifice, a true legacy of love. 

He will be remembered for his service, his faith, his humor, his strength, and the deep tenderness he showed to the people he loved. His life was one of quiet example, generous action, and enduring love, and his memory will be treasured by all who were blessed to know him. He loved us ‘more’.