Donald Eugene Hornsby

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Donald Eugene Hornsby, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. Born on March 30, 1946, in the welcoming embrace of Columbia, South Carolina, Donald departed this world on April 12, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. Donald was born to Lonnie Hornsby and Donna Stewart Frye Hornsby, and was raised in the close-knit Rosewood community of Columbia. He carried the values instilled in him there throughout his life. A proud graduate of Eau Claire High School, he went on to serve his country with honor in the South Carolina National Guard, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his community and nation. Donald's career was marked by an impressive tenure in the retail grocery industry, where he spent over 30 fruitful years with Piggly Wiggly and more than 20 years with Food Lion. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family, whom he always strived to provide for with unwavering determination and love. A man of many passions, Donald found great joy in the embrace of nature as an avid fisherman and hunter. He especially cherished the camaraderie and thrill of deer driving with hounds. In his younger years, he channeled his love for speed and ingenuity into working on hot rod cars and drag racing, pursuits that spoke to his adventurous spirit and mechanical prowess. Donald's life was a tapestry woven with threads of hard work, resilience, and a deeply rooted love for his family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joyce Elizabeth Branham Hornsby, and his grandson, Christian Neal Hornsby, whom he now joins in eternal peace. He leaves behind a family who will carry his memory forward: his children, Christopher Eugene Hornsby (Cindy) and April Hornsby (Rhett), both of Lexington, South Carolina; his grandchildren, Corrie Hornsby and Kaylah Hornsby; and his great-grandchildren, Lydia Emerson Bailey, Ian Brooks Bailey, and Lily Blair Bailey. Donald's legacy is one of strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication. He will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, his love for the great outdoors, and his commitment to providing the very best for his family. His presence in our lives was a true blessing, and his memory will forever remain a guiding light for those who were fortunate enough to know him. A celebration of Donald's life will be held in the coming days, where friends and family will gather to honor a remarkable man whose spirit and love will endure in our hearts. As we bid farewell to Donald Eugene Hornsby, we do so with gratitude for the indelible mark he has left on our lives and the world around him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Donald's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting his generous heart and his enduring commitment to the betterment of others.