Steve "Coach" Horne

1954 - 2025

"Coach" Steve Horne

Born: December 15, 1954 | Died: October 13, 2025

George Stephen "Steve" Horne, beloved coach, teacher, husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, in Kingsport, TN surrounded by his loving family. Steve leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership, laughter, and love. Known to many simply as "Coach," he dedicated his life to shaping not just athletes, but generations of young people who were fortunate enough to learn from him both on and off the field.

Born on December 15, 1954, Steve was the son of the late George "Connor" Horne and Grace Wanda Horne (formerly Hurd.) He is also preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his daughter, Joan Langston Horne.

A native of Tennessee, Steve was a proud graduate and standout point guard for East Tennessee State University. Standing 5 feet 10 inches tall, he may not have been the biggest player on the court, but he more than made up for it with heart, hustle, and determination. He often looked back fondly on his playing days, especially the times he went head-to-head against future NBA Hall of Famers. After college, Steve found his true calling in teaching and coaching. For 34 years, he poured his heart into Pepperell High School, where he coached basketball, served as offensive coordinator for the football team, and taught countless students the value of hard work, accountability, and integrity. Even after retiring, his passion for the game never faded; he continued coaching football at Darlington, sharing his experience and wisdom with a new generation.

Coach Horne was known for his big personality and larger-than-life presence. He could be tough, but he was always fair, and those who earned his laughter or saw his smile knew they had made it into his inner circle. He was a straight forward man who always spoke his mind, but his honesty was something you could always count on. His wisdom and advice held the kind of value that changed lives. He had a gift for bringing out the best in people and was loved by many for his honesty and his heart. When he wasn't on the field or in the classroom, Steve could often be found on the golf course, playing his famous "quarter game" at Meadow Lakes Golf Club. Golf, like coaching, brought out his love of competition and camaraderie.

Above all, Steve was devoted to his family. His wife, his children, and his grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. Of all his accomplishments, the role Steve cherished most was being a father and a grandfather. He absolutely loved playing with his grandchildren. His soft side always made an appearance when they were near and was a side only a few had the privilege of witnessing. They brought out the gentlest and happiest version of him, and nothing lit up his face, quite like time spent with them.

Those left behind to honor his memory and carry on his legacy are his beloved wife, Sissie Horne, his beautiful daughter, Emma Price (Cord); his grandchildren, Corbyn Price and Graycen Price; his siblings, Pat Deck, Wanda Ross, and Allen Horne (Amy); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Receiving of Friends will be 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Friday, October 24, 2025, in the chapel of Broome Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, October 24, 2025, in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Ronnie Horne and Darrell Price officiating.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Coach Horne on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Forum River Center located at 301 Tribune Street Rome, GA 30161.

Coach Steve Horne will forever be remembered as a Lindale Legend-a man who made others better, who taught lessons that reached far beyond the game, and whose impact will continue to ripple through the lives of all who knew him.