A former mayor of West Columbia has died.

Bobby Horton, who served as mayor for 11 non-consecutive terms and on City Council from 1977 to 1989, died June 29. He was 87.

“I'm grateful for his many years of dedicated service to West Columbia and our entire community,” state Rep. Micah Caskey told the Chronicle. Caskey represents District 89, which covers West Columbia, Cayce and Springdale. 

In a release, the city praised Horton for playing an integral part in building the Lake Murray Water Treatment Facility. The facility is now the largest wholesale water provider in Lexington County. 

In addition, Horton was a charter member of the West Columbia Beautification Foundation and spearheaded numerous initiatives that enhanced infrastructure and public services, such as extending the West Columbia Riverwalk from the Gervais Street Bridge to Moffat Street, transforming Carraway Park into a place for children with varying abilities, and the city’s Interactive Art Park and Meeting Street Artisan Market.

“Mayor Horton was a visionary – laying the groundwork years ago – and planting seeds for the magnificent harvest of the Quality of Life and business growth that West Columbia is currently experiencing,” said Tim James, president and CEO of the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber and Visitors Center and a member of Cayce City Council.

In addition to his time given to West Columbia, Horton was a dedicated friend and colleague, according to James. 

“When he called you his friend, he was loyal and your friend for life,” he said. “Mayor Bobby Horton’s imprint will be long remembered and appreciated by our community.”

Indeed, the city emphasized that Horton’s impact extended beyond his roles in government, noting time spent volunteering with various boards and organizations, including as state chair for the SC Jaycee Organization, chair of the Central Midlands Economic Development Council and as a board member for the Central Midlands Council of Governments and The River Alliance. He also served as a member of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in 2009, on the steering committee for the National League of Cities, and as chair of the Deacons for First Baptist Church of West Columbia.

“I am incredibly grateful for all that Bobby Horton has done for our city during his long service and for me personally,” current West Columbia Tem Miles is quoted in the release. “I know of no better public servant and no better man than Mayor Bobby. I am so glad he is now back home with Mrs. Kay.“

“The City of West Columbia expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mayor Bobby Horton during this difficult time,” City Administrator Brian Carter is quoted. “Mayor Horton was a dear friend and mentor. He enabled city employees to accomplish lasting improvements for West Columbia. His support for city employees and city leadership will continue to inspire us as we serve West Columbia.”

This is  a developing story and will continue to be updated.