Cory Scott Horton inspired and encouraged everyone he met. A swimming teacher, he founded the Memphis Thunder Aquatic Club, a competitive swim team, and co-founded Memphis Thunder Racing, a triathlon team for racers of all ages and ability levels. His coaching skills and personable nature won over kids, parents and other swim coaches alike. In May 2005, 35-year-old Cory was cycling when he was involved in an accident with a large truck that tragically cut his life short. When the family was asked about organ donation, the answer was a resounding yes. They said, "There is nothing more comforting than the knowledge that Cory's organs have helped others to live longer and healthier lives."

Cory's Story

Cory Scott Horton inspired and encouraged everyone he met. With bright red hair, a kind demeanor and a perpetual smile, he was especially magnetic to children. As a young man he raced in triathlons and loved all aspects of running, cycling and swimming, which he taught. He founded the Memphis Thunder Aquatic Club, a competitive swim team. Starting with only one swimmer, the club grew exponentially, with swimmers competing in nationals and even the Olympic Trials. His coaching skills and personable nature won over kids, parents and other swim coaches alike. Along with a good friend, he co-founded Memphis Thunder Racing, a triathlon team for racers of all ages and ability levels. Whenever a swimmer became discouraged or burned out, Cory would encourage them to try a triathlon. He would take them out on their first bike rides and help start them in their training.

Cory's favorite sport was cycling. Day after day, he rode mile after mile, alone or with a group. But in May 2005, while alone on a bike ride in a rural area, an accident with a large truck carrying farm equipment tragically cut his life short. For two days, friends and family watched and waited to see if he would recover, but the doctors had done all they could, and Cory was pronounced brain dead. "When the hospital staff asked us about organ donation, the answer was a resounding yes," affirmed his family.

Despite the pain of losing Cory, everyone agreed that Cory would have gladly said yes to saving the lives of others if given the chance. More than 800 people attended Cory's memorial service. A yearly bike ride is held in his memory, and there is a memorial plaque and bicycle placed in his honor at the school where he taught swimming. But the most dramatic reminder of Cory's contribution is the handful of people alive today because of his selfless gifts.

His family confirmed, "There is nothing more comforting than the knowledge that Cory's organs have helped others to live longer and healthier lives."