James Ralph Horton passed from this life on October 7, 2017 at the age of 81. The family along with friends will gather in fellowship and remembrance of his life on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 2:00PM in the First Baptist Church of Dimmitt, Texas with Pastor Tom Mullins and Pastor Jonathan Sullivan officiating. Burial will follow in Hart Cemetery under the direction of Colonial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at the funeral home.

James was born on June 27, 1936 in Carlsbad, Texas to James W. Horton and Toy Henson Horton and spent his childhood years in San Angelo and Odessa, Texas. James graduated from Baylor University in 1958 with a degree in economics and again in 1961 with a Doctorate of Jurisprudence. He then served his country as a Judge Advocate General in the U.S. Air Force with his last assignment at Walker Air Force Base, Roswell, New Mexico. James married Maxie A. Golmon in 1958. After a honorable discharge with the rank of Captain, James began his banking career in Dimmitt, Texas with the First State Bank of Dimmitt. In 1976, James married Ms. Jerrie G. Booe. After 21 years of supporting the agriculture community in a financial capacity, he began practicing civil law in Castro County. In 2001 he was elected District Attorney of Castro County, a position he would hold for the next 12 years. Later in life he had a loving and caring friend, Ms. Darlene Walters. James was an entrepreneur with successful ventures in aerial spraying, raising cattle and real estate. One of the biggest thrills in life was to watch others succeed and was always there to assist in any way he could. He enjoyed flying airplanes and gliders, fishing and spending time with his family. James was always a great father, grandfather, great-grandfather, family man, supporter, provider, friend and faithful servant of our Lord and Savior.

James is survived by daughters, Sherry Schaeffer and husband David of Dimmitt, TX, Linda Mask and husband Mark of Millington, Tenn., Amber Dembroski and husband Kevin of Kennedale, TX, sons, David Horton and wife Laine of Arlington and Austin Horton and wife Donna of Crandall, TX., sister, Dr. Joann Goatcher of Little Rock, AR., and numerous grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Ms. Jerrie Horton and his sons, Mike Booe and Danny Booe.

The family suggests in lieu of flowers, that memorials be made to Abundant Life Family Church, PO Box 187, Dimmitt, Texas 79027