Mayor Bobby Horton

Bobby Edward Horton, 87, of West Columbia, South Carolina died Thursday, June 29th, 2023. A service of remembrance and celebration of his life will be held at Brookland Baptist Church, 1066 Sunset Boulevard, on Thursday, July 20th at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be private.

As the former mayor of West Columbia, Bobby was a dedicated public servant and esteemed leader and leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service and a lasting impact on the City of West Columbia.

He served as the Mayor of the City of West Columbia from 2004-2011 and 2015-2019 and on City Council from 1977-1989. During his 24 years of service to the City, he exemplified unwavering commitment, a tireless work ethic, and an unyielding dedication to the betterment of the City. His exceptional leadership, integrity, and passion for serving the public leaves a permanent mark on the community, and his influence will resonate for generations to come.

As mayor, Horton was an integral part of building the Lake Murray Water Treatment Facility in the late 1980s, which made West Columbia the largest wholesale water provider in Lexington County. He was a charter member of the West Columbia Beautification Foundation, a project that was a favorite of both Horton and his beloved late wife Kay.

Horton was especially proud of his involvement in developing Carraway Park into a park for children of all abilities in West Columbia. His contributions to the state were recognized by Governor Henry McMaster in November of 2019 when he received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.

Bobby worked for SCE&G and SCANA for over 37 years, retiring from the governmental affairs department in 1993.

Bobby volunteered his time with various boards and organizations and was an active member of First Baptist Church West Columbia. His legacy extends far beyond his achievements and contributions to the City of West Columbia. He was a compassionate and caring individual who genuinely cared about the well-being of those around him. His genuine empathy and commitment to serving others earned him the respect and admiration of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

He had a passion for the sport of golf, traveling far and wide to play various courses. His five-year battle with cancer exemplified courage and resilience. His only complaint during treatment was the time he missed playing golf with friends.

Bobby is preceded in death by his wife, Kay and his parents S. Thomas and Birdie H. Horton.  He is survived by his daughter Lynn Horton Shull and son Chris Horton; granddaughters Margaret Shull and Lindsay Horton; brother Reverend Heyward Horton; beloved nephews, cousins, and extended family. He is also predeceased by son-in-law Lon H. Shull III.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made in Horton’s memory to the following foundation.

West Columbia Beautification Foundation

In Memory of Bobby Horton

PO Box 4044

West Columbia, SC 29171