Karen Ann Horton, 82, of Belle Rive, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 8:55 pm September 26, 2025 at her home, surrounded by her family. She was born July 28, 1943 in McClellan Township, Jefferson County, daughter of the late William and Edna (Forth) Colvin. She and the love of her life, Billy Horton, united in marriage sixty-two years ago on December 23, 1962.
Karen was a 1961 graduate of Mount Vernon Township High School and later earned an associates degree from Rend Lake College in 1981. She was a stay-at-home mother and homemaker for many years before working as a teacher’s aide, and at several pre-schools and day care centers in the area.
A devout Christian, Karen was an active member of Community of Christ Church, where she served faithfully in her priesthood calling. He faith was the foundation of her life.
Karen had a creative spirit and a talent for crafting and designing. She found joy in creating beautiful handmade items- crocheting, cross-stitching, macramé, painting, and many other crafts that became heartfelt gifts. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, where she expressed her love through cooking and baking, sharing delicious meals and sweet treats with family and friends.
Karen cherished her family. She adored her children and their families and was very proud of all of them.
In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her parents-in-law, Louise and Woodrow Horton; and her sister, Willena (Colvin) Ross.
In addition to her husband, Karen is survived by her children, Barry (Gwen) Horton, Melissa (Orlando) Ramos, and Randy (Stephanie) Horton; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Kevin) Wairimu, Sarah (Gavin) Heern, Ellen Ramos (Kegan Snodsmith), Osiris Ramos, Jackson Horton, and Tucker Horton; and great-grandchildren, Selah Heern, Lottie Wairimu, and Tuff Heern.
A Visitation will be held Monday, September 29, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Newell Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 11:00 am at Newell Funeral Home with High Priest Stan Morrison officiating. Interment will follow at Belle Rive Cemetery in Belle Rive, Illinois.
Memorials may be made in Karen’s honor to the Community of Christ Brush Creek Campground. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home or mailed to Brenda Coop 1963 Charleston Road Salem, Illinois.
Karen’s love and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, the precious memories we shared with her will be cherished forever.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.