Hornbarger, Donald Ray

Chief Master Sergeant Donald R. Hornbarger, USAF (Ret.), surrounded by his family, left this earthly life and entered the joys of heaven on Thursday evening, May 18, 2017. He was born on July 4, 1936, to the late Hiram and Mary Hornbarger. He was preceded in death by his first wife Gloria L. Hornbarger, his brother and sister-in-law Hiram P. and Thelma Hornbarger, a nephew Mike Dickerson, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Clarence and Geneva Boyer, and his sisterin-law Eunice S. Dickerson.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for twenty-five years. He was stationed at MacDiII Air Force Base in Florida, Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas, and Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland with time also served in Africa, Guam, and Thailand. He was in aircraft maintenance and honorably served in the Air Force One Maintenance Crew. His accomplishments and awards were numerous during his prestigious career.

Don was a shining example of a Christian gentleman-always putting others before himself, and giving a helping hand to those who needed it. He was a quiet man who spoke volumes witnout ever having to say a word-his presence commanded respect and gave a calm assurance to all. The sparkle of his blue eyes reflected his kindness to everyone who met him. Don was a faithful member of Edgemont Christian Church where he served in the office of Deacon and volunteered countless hours of service to the church.

Those left to cherish his beautiful memory are his wife Bobby, sisters and brothers-in-law Jean and Blane Dickerson of Richmond, Pat and Bill (Punky) Fulcher of Christiansburg, brother-in-law Julius Dickerson of Floyd, nieces and nephews Perry and Cathy Hornbarger, Angie and Fray Gales, Tim and Gail Dickerson, Randy Fulcher, Kristal Fulcher and Chris Roop, Mary Dickerson, and Leah and Jacob Andrews. Also surviving are great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Lewis Gale Montgomery Hospital for the kind care given to Don over recent weeks as well as the staff of Carilion Hospice-especially Nicole, Teresa, and Annette.

Visitation will be Monday evening, May 22,2017, from 5:00-8:00 at Horne Funeral Home. Funeral service, with full military rites, will be
conducted on Tuesday, May 23,2017, at 2:00 P.M. at Horne Funeral Chapel with Rev. Peter Anderson officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Edgemont Christian Church at 2289 Edgemont Road, Christiansburg, VA 24073.