July 10, 1938 – June 28, 2025
Robert Horne, a devoted family man, accomplished chemical engineer, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 86. Born on July 10, 1938, in Haslingden, Lancashire, England, Robert lived a life marked by curiosity, leadership, and a deep commitment to family, innovation, and community.
Robert’s academic journey began at Holm Leigh Preparatory School and continued at Shrewsbury School in Shropshire, England, where he graduated in 1956. His passion for science and exploration led him to the University of Cambridge, where he earned a degree in chemical engineering in 1961. While at Cambridge, Robert contributed to groundbreaking research at the Cavendish Laboratory, playing a role in the early developments of the space race. He was also a proud and active member of the Caius College rowing team.
In pursuit of broader horizons, Robert continued his education at Harvard Business School, earning an MBA in 1968. His professional life spanned continents and industries, including pivotal leadership and organizational roles at Imperial Chemical Industries in Stamford, Connecticut. Among others, he held senior leadership roles at Stauffer Chemical, Digital Equipment, Nortel, and as president and CEO of BioCad in Palo Alto, California.
Beyond his professional achievements, Robert was a committed civic leader. He was elected to the board of tax review and subsequently to the board of finance in Westport, Connecticut. In a crowning achievement of his public service, he was appointed by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal as chair of the Governor’s Commission to establish the city of Johns Creek. Governor Deal commented on his work, “As chairman of the Commission to establish Johns Creek, Robert worked closely with my office to build a city founded on cooperation and vision. His leadership helped create a community recognized nationally for its exceptional quality of life and its top-tier public education system.”
In 1967, Robert married Elizabeth Ann Shaw of Gerrards Cross, England. Together, they immigrated to the United States in 1967 and eventually made their home at Lanier Village Estates in Gainesville, GA. Robert was a member of Gainesville First United Methodist Church.
Robert found his greatest joy in time spent with family and in the outdoors. He loved sailing on Long Island Sound, where he taught his children the art of trimming sails and reading the wind. Winters were often spent skiing with family and friends at Sugarbush in Warren, Vermont, where laughter and shared memories were always part of the adventure. Summer beach trips to 30A became cherished traditions, filled with stories, games, and long walks on the beach. As a grandfather, he was deeply involved in the lives of his five grandchildren – attending their events, celebrating their milestones, and always making what mattered to them feel important. His presence was a source of steadiness and love, and he will be missed more than words can express.
Robert is survived by his wife, Ann, and their three children: Mark (Jennifer) of Alpharetta, GA; Adam (Diane) of Redondo Beach, CA; and Hannah Salus (Eric) of Cumming, GA. He was a devoted grandfather to Ayden, Addison, Morgan, Paige, and Luke – as well as a loving and supportive uncle to his nieces and nephews, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
A life well-lived, Robert will be remembered for his intellect, warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to progress and community.
Please join us in celebrating Robert’s life on July 26 at 2 p.m. at the chapel of Lanier Village Estates, 4000 Village View Drive, Gainesville, GA 30506.
To honor his memory, the family invites donations to the LVE Samaritan Fund via www.actsgiving.com in lieu of flowers.
Memorial Park Riverside Chapel, 989 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-6200. For online condolences www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com
