Rudolph Andrew Horton, Jr., also known to many as “Butch”, entered into rest on  September 7, 2021. He was born on September 16, 1949 to Rudolph A. Horton, Sr. and Patsy J. Childs in Cleveland, Ohio. Rudolph was the eldest of seven children (David, Donna, Gloria, Marilyn, Martha and Terry).

On October 23, 1971 he married his high school sweetheart, Linda Mae Grimes.  Rudolph and Linda had two sons, Justin Rudolph and Thayer Andrew.  Rudolph and Linda would have shared their 50th wedding anniversary this October.

Rudolph graduated from John Hay high school in 1967.  He served in the United States Air Force as an aviation electrician and earned the rank of Sergeant. When honorably discharged, he became a journeyman electrician with the IBEW 673. As an electrician, Rudolph worked on major projects throughout the US, including Boston’s “Big Dig” and the famous Las Vegas Strip.  While working full-time as an electrician, he earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in Accounting from Cleveland State University.

Rudolph had an intense love for his family and was a father figure to many.  Rudolph was never afraid to take on causes that he was passionate about.  He was the self-proclaimed convener of “Saturday School,” for his sons, nieces, and nephews (D’Antoinette, Etienne, Rafael, John, Monica, Lance, Shawn and Robert).  He utilized Saturday School as his opportunity to enhance and propel their formal education.  He taught a variety of scholastic topics along with etiquette, logic and lessons in daily living.  Rudolph also mentored and taught many young electricians throughout his career.

Rudolph was known for his humor, quick wit, and candor.  Most people, meaning everyone he met, learned to appreciate his delivery to understand the meaning of his guidance and the love that motivated it.

He was an avid Cleveland Browns fan, collected coins, loved murder-mystery shows, and enjoyed sharing a riddle.  Rudolph perfected the art of a good nap and could fall asleep on the same part of a movie consistently.

Rudolph is preceded in death by his parents and three siblings: David, Terry, and Donna

Rudolph’s precious memory shall be treasured by his wife: Linda Horton, his sons: Justin (Andrean) and Thayer, his grandchildren: Andrea and Liam, his sisters: Gloria, Marilyn and Martha and a host of nieces and nephews.

We leave you with a few of Rudolph’s favorite sayings:

• T-H-I-N-K
• Love you and don’t forget to floss
• The Browns can win this game
• Be careful of what you say because once the words are out of your mouth you can’t take them back