Jerry Trent Horton

Jerry Trent Horton, of Riner, VA, passed away on October 5, 2025 at the age of 87. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community member.

Jerry served in the U.S. Army for three years, including 18 months in Germany, and then attended Hines Junior College in Mississippi. After some years away, Jerry and Mary Jo returned to Riner to raise their children near their families. He later began working with his father on the family dairy farm. Jerry spent over 50 years as a hardworking dairy and beef farmer. He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication to his family, telling tall tales and laughing at a good joke always with a big smile.

As a lifelong member of Auburn United Methodist Church in Riner, Jerry’s faith was a steady part of his life. He was a loyal Virginia Tech Hokies fan and enjoyed playing golf in his later years. His love of sports, family, and community shaped his everyday life. Jerry is survived by his wife Mary Jo Horton, his three children Mary Kay Mee (Bobby), David Horton, Laura Newell (Mark), and 6 grandchildren (Ben, Seth, Jacob, Nathan, Ian and Zac), also by his brother Jan Horton (Dorothy) and brother-in law Jeff Howard, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Kay Howard and nephew Greg Howard. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family wishes to say a special thank you to the staff of Heritage House, Medi Hospice, Va Tech Adult Day Care Center, and Pulaski Adult Day Care Center for the wonderful care and love  that they provided for Jerry in his last year.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday October 11, 2025 at Horne Funeral Services in Christiansburg. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm with the service starting at 2:00 pm and the burial in Sunset cemetery after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Auburn United Methodist Church or to the Riner Rescue Squad.