Joan Horton

Joan graduated from St. Frederick High School in Pontiac, MI, in 1952. Shortly after graduation, she married her beloved “Jimmy” (George James Horton) who preceded her in death in 1995. Together, they shared a love of family and sports. She was an avid Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings fan.

Joan was also an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Auburn Hills, MI, and then St. Mary’s Church in Big Bay, MI. She served as Sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, and Lady’s Guild member.

Her other hobbies included gardening, reading, crocheting, feeding birds, cooking, and doing the dishes by hand – insisting on “getting her hands in the hot water.”

As many knew, Joan’s main love and focus was her family. She is survived by: daughters, Maureen Peabody (Bruce) of Thompsonville and Michelle Ayotte (the late William) of Marquette; her grandchildren, Rebecca Dales of Midland, Monica Wolf (Eric) of Marquette, Steven Dales (Heather) of Ishpeming, Michael Phillips of Kaleva, and Christopher Phillips (Lawrence) of Lincoln Park; 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Her family also included Any Dafoe (John) of Auburn Hills along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were: her parents; brothers Robert Killinger, George Killinger, Samuel Killinger, James Killinger; and sister, Margaret Zazworsky.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Saturday, August 3, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Onekama, MI, with Rev. Bradley Nursey, Celebrant. Visitation will precede Mass starting at 10:00 AM at the church. A luncheon will follow the service in the church hall. Interment will follow the luncheon at Oakwood Cemetery in Frederic, MI, approximately 3:00 PM. A Memorial Mass will occur September 22, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Big Bay, MI.

In addition, the family would like to especially thank the staff and residents of Maple Ridge Manor, Manistee, MI, during the final year of her life. This second family provided friendships, social activities, and made her feel special and loved in her “home” away from home. Per her request, she passed at her Manor home with family at her side.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 305 Bensinger Road, Big Bay, MI 49808 or World Vision, Joan’s favorite charity.

The Terwilliger Funeral Home, in Kaleva, MI, is in charge of arrangements. www.terwilligerfuneralhome.com.