George John Horstman Jr.

George John Horstman, Jr., 96, of North Vernon, passed away August 15, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family. 

George was born on July 24, 1928, at home on The Farm, the son of George and Muriel (Detraz) Horstman. He married his life-long love Edora Ann "Dody" Holmes upon returning from duty as a T/5 in the Signal Core with the United States Army in World War II. George and Dody celebrated 65 years of marriage prior to her passing in 2015; they slept clasping hands every night. 

Beloved by the community, George resided at the family farm where he was born almost his entire 96 years; George continued to operate his farm until he turned 95. In 2018, the farm was recognized with the Hoosier Homestead Award, given to farms owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years. George’s farm produced agricultural products and hosted farm animals. He started his own electrical company, Horstman Electric, and ran this operation for many years in addition to farming. In 1970, George accepted the role of Director of Buildings and Grounds for Jennings County School Systems, where he continued to provide service to his community for 22 years.  

An avid storyteller, George never met a stranger, and he filled everyone he met with warmth and joy. George held many roles in American Baptist Churches over the years, including Deacon, Trustee, Region Board Member of ABC-IN/KY, and as an officer in ABC Men’s Brotherhood. He was a current member of Zion Baptist Church and held office with Ebenezer United Methodist, as well as a former member of Graham Baptist Church of San Jacinto and First Baptist Church of North Vernon. George belonged to the Free Masons, Six Mile Lodge 412 in Hayden. He enjoyed spending time tinkering in his shop, spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, reading his devotionals, wintering in Florida, and visiting with friends and family.

Surviving George are three daughters, Deborah (Gary) Horstman Bridges of Columbus, Judith (Andrew) Horstman Morris of Westport, and Rebecca (Tom) Horstman May of Noblesville; six grandchildren, Susannah (David) Hallgarth, Jeremy (Shirley) Bridges, Bethany Bridges, Benjamin (Zoe) May, Philip May, Jo May; and three great-grandchildren, Lilian and Oliver Hallgarth and Jade Bridges. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, his sister, and his wife. 

The family thanks all those who cared for George from Our Hospice both at home and for inpatient respite stays.  Special thanks as well to Teresa and Pam from Schneck Hospice. 

Memorial donations can be sent to Zion Baptist Church or Our Hospice of South Central Indiana.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Dove-Sharp & Rudicel Funeral Home and Cremation Service in North Vernon with Rebecca May and Rev. Richard Burcham officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Vernon Cemetery in Vernon with Military graveside rites by members of Matt Hester Post #2021 V.F.W.

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