Steven Paul Horner, 72, of Anderson, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, following a brief illness.
He was born in Anderson, the son of Richard and Janice (Stalbaum) Horner. Steve spent a lifetime serving God and serving others – first as a pulpit minister (20 years) and then as a hospice chaplain (15 years). Steve had a powerful impact on countless people during meaningful lifecycle events. Pastoral life was not just his job, it was who he was.
Compassion was Steve’s greatest gift, but a close second was his ability to tell a captivating story – which translated to spectacular sermons. He knew how to listen, give a good bear hug, make others laugh, and make people feel special. As a lover of both music and the performing arts, Steve enjoyed musical theater and could sing every word to the classic showtunes.
Steve’s legacy and strong values will live on through his surviving family: his loving wife of 22 years, Char (Bradway) Horner; children, Kari (Dan) Fagin, Craig (Jessica) Akers, Amy (Chuck) Ray; eight grandchildren, Anna (Joe) Larimer, Jacob Fagin, Madeline Akers, Allison Akers, Cutter Ray, Daniel Miner, and Jaylah Tincher; siblings, Donna Persinger and Scott Horner; two nieces and two nephews.
Steve’s family will hold a private memorial service to celebrate Steve. Words of love and memories of Steve can be posted to www.rozelle-johnson.com.
Memorial contributions may be given to South Meridian Church of God or to the Children of Promise program through the church.