Obituary published on Legacy.com by Smalls Mortuary - Eastern Shore - Daphne on Nov. 29, 2025.
Maurice Leroy Horsey III, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and community
leader, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, in
Daphne, Alabama, at the age of 76.
Larger than life in both presence and personality, Maurice was known for his infectious smile,
booming laughter, and the remarkable ability to make every person he met feel instantly
welcomed and valued. He never met a stranger-only friends he had not yet gotten to
know-and those who encountered him, even briefly, carried away warmth, joy, and a lasting
impression of his generous spirit.
Born and raised in Harford County, Maryland, Maurice grew up grounded in the values of
integrity, service, and family. He attended and integrated North Harford High School where he
was a student-athlete. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from Antioch University and
began his professional journey as a teacher, where he discovered his gift for connecting with
people, especially young people seeking guidance and encouragement. His passion for service
led him to a long and impactful career as a YMCA Corporate Executive, where he spent
decades championing youth development and strengthening communities across the country.
Maurice was the kind of leader whose presence brought calm, whose humor lifted spirits, and
whose compassion transformed the spaces around him.
After retiring, Maurice made his home in
Daphne, Alabama, where his dedication to community
continued through civic engagement. As a committed member of the Daphne Democrats, he
embraced local advocacy and even ran for public office-yet another expression of his belief
that service is a lifelong calling.
Maurice was a devoted husband to his wife, Judy Hinton Horsey of New Orleans, Louisiana,
who remained his partner, confidant, and greatest supporter for four decades. He is also
survived by his two sons, Maurice Leroy Horsey IV (Dr. Irish Horsey) of Snellville, Georgia, and
Ian Horsey (Zeke Cochran) of Winston Salem, North Carolina. He was a deeply proud
grandfather, cherishing every moment with his grandchildren, Mauri Elle Horsey, Morgan Reese
Horsey, and Maurice Leroy Horsey V.
He is survived as well by his siblings, Edmund Horsey of Jarrettsville, Maryland, Maria Miller
(Gregory) of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Armando Horsey (Adine) of Honolulu, Hawaii.
Maurice was also an uncle who treasured his nephews, Quentin Miller and Liam Horsey,
celebrating their milestones with pride and affection.
Together, Maurice and Judy shared a wide and loving extended family. Maurice is survived by
his aunt, Mabel Tittle Williams of Atlanta, Georgia, and his aunts, Shirley Lee Tittle and Shirley
Marie Tittle of Jarrettsville, Maryland, as well as a large family of cousins whom he loved deeply,
including Gwendolyn Williams, Michael Moore (Karen), Bernadette Tittle, Michael Williams, Reid
Tittle, Denise Tittle-Hughes, Andre Tittle, Richard Tittle Jr. (Jeannie), Rhonda Tittle Harris, Troy
Fox, Troy Tittle (Lisa), John Williams, Jeffrey Tittle, and Michael Tittle.
On Judy's side, he is survived by his sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Joyce Hinton Hayden,
Bruce Hinton (Marilyn), Cynthia Hinton and Patrice Hinton; and a cherished circle of nieces and
nephews, including Anne Marie Hayden, Tressan Hinton, Frank Hayden III, Shajuane Kent
Cook (Dupree), Damon Hinton, Claudia Hayden, Kelli Hinton, and Ryan Hinton (Brianna).
Maurice also embraced a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and close family friends
who brought added joy and light to his later years.
Maurice's life was defined by the love he gave so freely, the joy he brought effortlessly, and the
service he offered humbly. His presence filled rooms, uplifted spirits, and left lasting marks on
hearts. He will be remembered not only for the legacy he built through his work and community
engagement but also for the authenticity, humor, and love he shared with everyone around him.
Funeral services are entrusted to Small's Mortuary & Cremation Services, Inc. in Daphne,
Alabama. Graveside burial will be conducted with dignity and care by Bel Air Memorial
Gardens in Bel Air, Maryland.
In lieu of flowers at the funeral services in Alabama, the family kindly requests planting a tree in
Maurice's memory or making a donation to the Eastern Shore Democratic Club.
Eastern Shore Democratic Club
Nancy Bolton Beck
300 College Avenue
Daphne, AL 36526
Floral arrangements may be received at the graveside service in Maryland for those who wish to
honor him in that way.
The family invites friends, colleagues, and loved ones to share memories and condolences on
his online memorial page.