Donald A. Horton

Donald Andrew Horton was born on December 3, 1946, to the loving union of Sam Horton and Ietta Mitchell Horton. Through their example, they instilled in him strong Christian values, integrity, ingenuity, and a deep sense of responsibility—qualities that helped shape a solid, caring, and close-knit family environment. His parents were highly respected throughout the Curtis community, and that legacy of honor and respect followed Don throughout his life.

Don was a proud graduate of Peake High School, Class of 1964. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, faithfully serving his country. Following his military service, he worked for Georgia-Pacific and later Reynolds Metal Company, where he demonstrated a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Affectionately known as “Don Horton” to many, he grew up in Curtis, Arkansas, and remained a lifelong and faithful member of Mt. Friendship Baptist Church. There, he served as former Chairman of the Trustee Ministry, always willing to give his time, wisdom, and leadership to the church he loved. He was married to Ethel Horton for 14 years and to that union one son was born. 

Don had a wide range of interests and talents. He loved football, especially cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks—and enjoyed all genres of music. A gifted mechanic and certified electrician, Don loved to tinker, take things apart, and fix just about anything with his hands. He was known for his skill, creativity, and problem-solving ability.

Entrepreneurial by nature and a natural businessman, Don, along with his brothers, Sam, Maurice, Jerry and other business partners, opened “Brothers” in 1982. The establishment became a beloved staple in Arkadelphia, known for bringing nightlife, camaraderie, friendship, dancing, and joy to the community. It was later re-opened and named “Club Curtis” which was especially recognized as a popular gathering place for fraternity and sorority events and Greek shows, leaving a lasting mark on generations of patrons.

Don was truly a “friend’s friend.” He offered wise counsel, was always ready to lend a helping hand, and was famous for his spirited debates. He loved to argue, fuss, and debate—often winning by default simply because others grew tired of trying to outlast Don Horton’s determination and wit.

Donald Andrew Horton peacefully departed this life on December 30, 2025, in Curtis, Arkansas—affectionately known to him as “God’s country.” He was welcomed home by his parents; his sisters, Henry Etta (2013) and Mattie Armstrong (2020); two brothers, Maurice (2010) and Samuel, Sr. (2013) and his sister-in-law Bernis (2011).

He leaves to cherish his memory two sons: Juan Horton of Curtis, Arkansas, and Jotham (Evon) Gray of Bryant, Arkansas; his grandchildren: Darren Guinn, Jr., Diamond Horton, Dy’vion Horton, D’Nasia Horton, Jordyn Gray, Jrue Gray and Joshua Gray; and five great-grandchildren. He also leaves one sister, Barbara Smith of Wichita, Kansas; two brothers, Jerry Horton of McKinney, Texas and James Goza; and one sister-in-law, Katryne S. Horton of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

In addition, Don leaves Mike Campbell and Rob Green, whom he loved as his own sons, and close friends Leotis McClure, Nate Leeper, Tommy Mitchell, and Doug Woodruff, all of whom held a special place in his heart and several other friends.

Visitation will be from noon until 7:00 PM with the family hour from 6:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Williams Funeral Home.

A celebration of his life will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday January the 10, 2026 at Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Arkadelphia, Dr. Lewis A. Shepherd, Jr., pastor and Rev. Kyle Jones, eulogist. Interment will be at Curtis Cemetery with military honors.