Robert D. Horton

Robert Dye Horton, 79, of Syracuse, New York, unexpectedly passed and went home to be with the Lord Saturday, December 6, 2014. Robert Dye was born March 30, 1935 in Jackson, Tennessee to the union of Homer and Thelma J. (Morgan) Horton. He attended public schools in Jackson, Tennessee, and would later further his education at Cayuga Community College where he would receive his A.A.S. in Business Administration. After his service in the United States Army, Robert immediately entered the workforce, excelling in all he did. Taking pride in each task, he would assume leadership roles for various companies including Janitorial Services, and Miller Brewing Company. Robert enjoyed many things during his life. Whether it was boxing or learning, teaching or traveling; Robert sought knowledge, adventure and a good challenge. Winning the Golden Gloves in 1966 he would turn pro later that same year. He wouldn't lay down the gloves before first becoming Billy Backus' chief sparring partner. Robert has always held learning in high regard. Over the years he would attend institutions such as Syracuse University, Bell & Howell, and Cornell University. He also enjoyed learning about his family's genealogy and heritage. He felt that learning where you came from was essential in knowing where you were headed in life. Furthermore, his diverse interest in learning would lead him to enjoy hobbies such as building and tinkering with small electronics. Robert enjoyed, most of all, spending time with His friends and family. Whether sharing stories at a barbeque, or his yearly travels to visit family out of state; these moments are what he held closest to his heart. Robert D. Horton was preceded in death by parents, Homer and Thelma J. (Morgan) Horton, and siblings Charles, and Charlotte Lela-bell Horton. Robert leaves to mourn his passing, and cherish his memory; Kenneth Moten (Sheila) Jackson, TN, Robert Horton Jr. (Valerie), Troy Horton (Maritza), Linda Horton-Wheat, Matthew Horton (Blossom) all of Syracuse, NY; 16 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and many loving family and friends. A calling hour will be held Saturday December 13, 2014 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at God's Temple of Faith, 1501 South Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13207 with a funeral to follow. Burial with Military Honors will be in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery.