Chet Prather Horne passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. He was born on August 16, 1958, in Madisonville, Kentucky, to the late Robert Jackson Horne and Christine Anne Prather. During his childhood, his family moved across several states, but he spent his most cherished years growing up in Mound, Minnesota, on Lake Minnetonka.
A proud Mound Westonka High School graduate, Chet was a three sport All Conference Athlete. His talent and dedication to sports was recently recognized with his upcoming induction into the school's Hall of Fame in the fall. He played football and studied business at Western Kentucky University, where he earned his bachelor's degree.
After college, Chet began his professional career at Kentucky Finance. He later moved to Florida in 1986, where he met his wife, Janet. Chet continued his career as a mortgage broker and later found meaningful work in the community as an agent with AFLAC. He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication to helping others, and his warm, approachable nature.
Chet was married to his loving wife Janet for 34 years and was a devoted husband and family man. He thoroughly enjoyed raising his two daughters, Heather and Brittany, who were the pride and joy of his life. He especially loved being part of their journey through competitive sports, spending countless weekends on the road for travel basketball tournaments. Whether it was an early morning tip-off or a late-night drive back home, Chet never missed a chance to be there. He wasn't just in the stands-he was their biggest fan, coach from the sidelines, post-game pep talk expert, and waterboy. Chet's unwavering presence in their lives shaped Heather and Brittany into strong, compassionate, and independent women.
Chet was a beloved family member and a loyal, lifelong friend to many. His friendships, most spanning decades, were filled with laughter, loyalty, and unforgettable traditions. He looked forward every year to an annual ski trip with close friends-a tradition filled with adventure, storytelling, and the kind of camaraderie that only deep, time-tested friendships bring. Summers on Lake Minnetonka held a special place in Chet's heart. Whether out on the boat, grilling, or simply enjoying a sunset over the water, Chet created and cherished memories that his friends will treasure forever.
His humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He had a unique gift for making people feel seen and valued, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Chet is survived by his wife, Janet Morris Horne; daughters, Heather Nicole Horne and Brittany Marie Horne; brother, Robert (Karen) Horne; aunt, Leigh Baldwin (Gary Lovell); nephews, Benjamin (Mirna) Horne, Nathanael Horne and Alex Baldwin; niece, Rachel (Grant) Roethel; and their children, Emma and Russell Roethel. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents.
A memorial service will be held at Renewal Church of Sarasota located at 7221 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, Fl on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at 10:30AM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Chet's life.
Donations may be made in Chet's memory to AFLAC Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta: give.choa.org.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL, 34207, is in charge of arrangements.
