New Castle, PA - Jesse C. Horton Sr., 88, of New Castle, passed away peacefully Friday afternoon, March 6, 2026, at his home.

Mr. Horton was born Oct. 26, 1937, in Broad Top, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Ewell W. and Valesta (Cutsall) Horton. He was a 1955 graduate of Ne-Ca-Hi and attended Youngstown State University.

On Dec. 20, 1958, he married the former Frances "Francie" Cole, and she survives at home.

For 65 years, Jesse owned and operated J.C. Horton Realty located on East Washington St. in New Castle, where the longtime company motto was "Service with a Smile." He was a member of the Lawrence County Board of Realtors and also served on the Salvation Army Board of Directors for many years.

In 1998, Jesse founded Chapel Jubilee on Highland Avenue, where he prayed and worshiped.

A talented first baseman, his love for the game of baseball remained with him throughout his life, shown through his unwavering commitment to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jesse has rounded the bases and is now at Home Safe with Jesus.

Above all else, Jesse was a devoted husband, caring father and loving grandfather who cherished the time he was able to spend with his family.

In addition to his wife, Jesse is survived by his daughter, Holly (Philip) Williamson, of New Castle; two beautiful granddaughters, Amanda (Joseph) VanWagner, of Pittsburgh, and Grace Horton, of Lansing, Michigan; two precious great-granddaughters, Juliana and Aria VanWagner; a brother, Douglas Horton, of New Castle; a sister, Kim (Steve) Looney, of Wichita, Kansas; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by his son, Jesse C. Horton, II; two brothers, Wendell and Richard Horton; and a sister, Nancy Newman.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be directed to the Salvation Army of New Castle, 240 W. Grant St., New Castle, PA 16101.

In keeping with his wishes, a celebration of his life will be held during the Resurrection Day Celebration at Chapel Jubilee on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Interment will be in Oak Park Cemetery, Neshannock Township.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St., New Castle. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com.