April 9, 2021, 66, Goldsboro –
Dennis Alan Horne, 66, while in loving care at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, was called home to be with his Lord on Friday, April 9, 2021. After a brief illness, he has gained eternal peace in the arms of Jesus and perhaps, is dancing with the angels.
Dennis loved his country and had proudly served in the United States Air Force for 13 years during which time he became captain. His military career brought him many awards including Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Training Ribbon, Southwest Asia Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. From August 2, 1990 until June 29, 1993, Dennis served in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm and was one of the first F-15 Strike Eagle pilots to fly over Iraq and Kuwait.
He was retired from Boeing with 25 years of service as a flight instructor.
Quite the educated man, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Troy University and gained his Master’s degree from the University of Alabama.
Dennis, a southern gentleman, and a selfless man was a faithful member of the First Christian Church of Goldsboro. Here he served as a lay minister, was church moderator, a church elder, and oversaw the church’s annual barbeque fundraisers. A true leader in his church, he was always among the first to volunteer to assist with any ongoing projects or needs among the congregation. His life truly exemplified the meaning of being a Christian.
A Renaissance man, he enjoyed movies and was a whiz with trivia. Always on point, he kept a glowing smile. His culinary talents brought happiness to others. A fabulous baker and excellent chef, his meals were sometimes exquisite and were always pleasing.
Known for his kindness and genuine generosity, Dennis was a hero of his country and also of his family. The light of his world was Gwen, who became his bride on April 2, 1988. He was devoted to her and his family, his church, and his beloved Shih Tzu dogs.
Military honors will be rendered on the front lawn of First Christian Church, 1609 E. Ash Street, Goldsboro on Friday, April 16, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service to celebrate the good life that Dennis Horne lived at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. Presiding will be Pastor Tom Millay. Following the service, visitation with the family will take place. For those wishing to remember Dennis with a memorial gift, suggested charities include First Christian Church, 1609 E. Ash Street, Goldsboro, NC 27534, or the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Gwen M. Horne, with whom he had just celebrated 33 years of marriage; his mother, Charlene Looser Horne; two sisters, Lynn Horne and Mary Ann Nichols; nieces, Bethany Gates and husband, Michael, and McKenzie Emma Foxall; a nephew, Cameron Alan Wood; great-nieces, Collins Gates and Finley Gates; a great-nephew, Landon Gates; uncles and aunts, Larry and Gail Horne, Pat Oliver, and Charles Looser; and many cousins he loved very much.
His father was the late Dr. Donald L. Horne.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.seymourfh.com.
