Kenneth Ray Horton, Jr., 39 of Smiths Station, AL, passed away unexpectedly after suffering from heart failure on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Piedmont Medical Center Midtown in Columbus, GA, while surrounded by all his loving family.
Kenneth was born October 6, 1986, in Phenix City, AL to Kenneth Ray Horton and Connie Rae Kish King. He was a 2005 graduate of Smiths Station High School and enjoyed playing high school football and participating in activities with all his friends. He loved listening to rock music, attending concerts, singing a great tune, or singing along with any song. Kenneth had a tender heart and was always looking to help anyone he could. He loved the outdoors and nature and enjoyed gardening. He had a passion for the food industry, working as a chef for many of the restaurants in the surrounding area. He was employed with Green Island Country Club in Columbus, GA
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Little “Marv” Marvel Justice Nicholas Horton; his paternal grandparents, “EW” Ermon and Ann Horton, and his maternal grandfather, George Edward Kish.
He is survived by his father, Kenneth Horton of Smiths Station, AL; mother, Connie Kish King and husband James Lavon King of Rockmart, GA; son, Kenneth Ray “Tre” Horton, III; his love, caring friend and companion, Katherine “Kat” Barnes of Columbus, GA; brother, Jamon Horton and wife Erika of Ellerslie, GA; sissy, Amanda Horton of Smiths Station, AL; maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Kish of Marion, AL, and close cousin, Danielle Maddox and husband Zeb; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and many caring friends.
A private burial will take place at Whispering Hills Nature Cemetery in LaGrange, GA. A memorial visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm EST on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City, AL.
https://www.vancebrooksfuneralhome.net/obituaries/kenneth-horton-jr
