Ted Horton

Following an extended illness, Dr. Ted Dwayne Horton, beloved by so many, met the promises of his dear Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at UAB Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family. Born March 17, 1976, in Clewiston, Florida, Dr. Ted was the son of the late Carl Clifton and Jolene Holmes Horton. A man with an extraordinary passion for learning, Dr. Ted never stopped pursuing knowledge or striving to deepen his understanding of God’s Word. After graduating from Southeast High School in 1994, he continued his education with unwavering determination. In 2014, he became an ordained minister through Promise Ministries International, earning both his ordination and a Bachelor of Ministry that same year. He went on to receive a Master of Divinity in 2015, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from Calvary Christian College and Seminary. In 2020, he achieved what he proudly considered his greatest academic accomplishment, earning his Doctor of Ministry degree from Slidell Baptist Seminary. Above all else, Dr. Ted was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. A faithful member of Life Gate Baptist Church, his love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of his life. His presence was deeply valued by his church family, and his servant’s heart never went unnoticed. Beyond the walls of his home church, he found great purpose through the International Network of Prison Ministries. Like Christ, Dr. Ted believed no life was beyond hope. He loved people unconditionally, saw the good in everyone, and faithfully pointed countless individuals toward the saving grace of Jesus. As Director of Promise Ministries International, he dedicated his life to sharing the Gospel, encouraging others, and helping lead souls to Christ. Away from ministry, Dr. Ted proudly embraced what he often jokingly called his “inner nerd.” He had a lifelong love for Doctor Who and Mystery Science Theater 3000, never apologizing for the things that brought him joy. His authenticity was one of his greatest qualities, and those who knew him loved him all the more because he was simply, unapologetically, himself. As much as he loved ministry, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. His daughter, Stephanie, was one of his greatest blessings, but becoming “Grandpa Ted” to his precious granddaughter, Dovie Lynn, was a title he treasured above all others. Rarely did a conversation pass without him proudly showing pictures of his two girls, often saying with a smile, “I never thought I’d get to see two perfect girls in my life.” Dr. Ted’s Christian light never stopped shining. He was genuine, compassionate, humble, and always willing to help anyone in need. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire all who knew him. His unending desire to learn something new each day, his willingness to offer second chances, his courage to never apologize for who God created him to be, and his unwavering love for others are just a few of the countless lessons he leaves behind. His memory will forever be cherished by his loving daughter, Stephanie Robbins (Rusty); his beloved granddaughter, Dovie Lynn Robbins; his sister, Stephanie Glover (Hank); along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, cherished church family, and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, Dr. Ted was preceded in death by his infant brother, Stephen Horton. Funeral service honoring Dr. Ted’s life was held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Gober Funeral Chapel, officiating the service was Pastor Jeff Mims, with special remarks shared by his dear friend, Dr. Ralph “Yankee” Arnold. The burial was in Arab Memorial Cemetery. Visitation was 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Gober Funeral Chapel. Those honored to serve as pallbearers was Art Mosel, Rusty Robbins, Michael Burris, Joe Cox, Jeff Mims, Shawn Graves, Mark McLain Jr., and Arthur Mosel. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Art and Linda Mosel, Michael and Cindy Burris, Dr. Keith Morgan, Dr. Marshall Schreeder, and the compassionate physicians, nurses, and caregivers at UAB Hospital. The kindness, love, and exceptional care shown to Dr. Ted and his family during his illness will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made to Promise Ministries International at pmiministries.com. They feel no tribute would better honor Dr. Ted’s life and the ministry he loved so dearly.

Ted Horton

March 17, 1976 - July 30, 2026