Gerald "Jerry" Ray Horine

Gerald R. “Jerry” Horine of Cornelius, NC, age 82, died peacefully at home on Dec. 10, 2023 with his loving family at his side. Born in 1941 in Saluda, IN, Jerry leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable memories and cherished moments with family and friends. He was the steady and generous patriarch of his family. Always kind hearted, devoted, and humble, he most enjoyed visiting with loved ones, telling stories and jokes, retelling jokes, playing the occasional prank on an unsuspecting target, and bragging about his kids and grandkids. Jerry was passionate about his many hobbies and interests – landscaping, photography, painting, ’55 - ’57 Chevys, arrowhead hunting, college basketball, bird watching and all things outdoors. Jerry’s award winning Christmas light displays showcased his creativity and handiwork. Recently, Jerry championed a Vietnam War Memorial fundraising effort to honor veterans in Madison, IN. Construction is now underway. Jerry’s prized ’55 Chevys, “Chameleon” and “Orange Crush,” took top honors two years in a row at the Carl Casper International Auto Show in Louisville, KY. His cars earned Best of Show at other shows, including the Charlotte AutoFest in 2014. Jerry was a basketball standout at Saluda High School in the late 1950s. He often credited his basketball coach for steering him toward a purposeful life. During his decline in health, Jerry frequently spoke of having a blessed life, shared that he was not afraid, and asked his family not to be sad and to remember their blessings instead.

From his humble beginnings as a worker in a shoe manufacturer to several jobs in sales, including a period as a sales leader at Pitney Bowes, Jerry eventually founded Mail Louisville in Louisville, KY and served as CEO for 15 years. Jerry believed in a hard day’s work and giving your best in all you do. He and his beloved wife of 52 years, Murlene, described their “best years together” as those in the home they built on the banks of the Ohio River in Bethlehem, IN. Jerry and Murl retired to Bradenton, FL.

Jerry is survived by Murl and children Brian, Michele Smith (Phil), and Mark. He cherished spending time with his grandchildren Amber (Adam), Matthew (Keri), Mackenzie, Jesse, and Amanda, as well as great grandchildren Jack and Annie. Jerry enjoyed a close relationship with his siblings: Dennis Horine (Mary Anne), Beverly Harrison, Gale Horine, Danny Turner (Anna) and Denise Wells (Martin), and sister-in law Wanda Horine. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

 Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall and Elizabeth, brother Herschel Dale Horine, sister Marsha Jane Sammons, sister-in-law Marie Horine, and brother-in law Ronald Harrison.

 Jerry’s family wishes to thank the care team of Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County in NC for their wonderful care. A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.