Donnell Peeler Horton

The daughter of the late Cora Mae Peeler and the late Leo Brown Peeler, she was born November 27, 1952, in Salisbury, North Carolina. She grew up in Salisbury and Harrisburg, North Carolina.

Donnell received a BA degree from Meredith College in psychology and taught many years at Elizabeth Traditional as a first grade teacher and later a literacy facilitator. At Elizabeth Traditional, Donnell was given the opportunity to do what she loved most and met some of her most treasured friends while doing it. Donnell truly loved helping the younger generation learn to read.

After retirement, she enjoyed volunteering in the schools, helping her grandkids with homework, traveling and spending time with family. She was a helper at heart and found the greatest joy when she could bring a smile to someone’s face. She brightened the room with her continual positivity. Even when her body failed, she continued to focus on the bright side of things.

Family came first for Donnell. When the grandbabies kept her up all night, she saw it as an opportunity to spend more time holding them. She loved breakfast and slow morning conversations over a cup of coffee. Later in life, her favorite thing was sitting on the porch at Topsail with her family and friends. When Donnell loved you, she embraced everything you loved. She was passionate about your passions. She was always ready to talk about the latest ECU or Carolina game.

Donnell was married 41 years to her high school sweetheart and best friend, the late Samuel "Chip" Reid Horton, III. Together they enjoyed wonderful trips to Europe, Australia, Hawaii and many Caribbean Islands. Time at home often involved sleepovers with grandchildren, who loved playing in the playhouse, swimming in the pool, and making a restaurant or lemonade stand.

She is survived by her two sons, Jared Reid Horton (Shannon) of Charlotte and Seth Horton (Sara Beth) of Charlotte; and sisters, Linda Austin (Terry) of Rockwell and Lisa Ratledge (AJ) of Charlotte and a large extended family. She was “Mimi” to Colin Reid and Isabelle Caroline Horton. Her loyal Maltipoo, Lacie, was by her side until the end.

Donnell was a member of Bethel Church in Midland. Most recently, she could be found attending New City Church and Forest Hill Church with her family. She was a former member of Third Presbyterian Church in Charlotte where she was involved in the children’s music ministry and taught Sunday School. Donnell believed in Jesus Christ as her Savior and understood the importance of faith and the uplifting effect of church families during difficult times.

The family would like to send their sincerest gratitude to the many caretakers that took great care of Donnell. A special thanks to Fanny Corea, who was there until the very end, as well as Mary, Yvonne, Cheryl, Carla, and Jenny, who helped along the way. Kathrine Davis also helped make so many special beach trips to Topsail happen for Donnell and her family.

A celebration of her life will be held Friday, October 18, 2024 at 11:00 AM at New City Church at 2500 Carmel Rd, Charlotte, NC 28226.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Donnell's memory may be made to ALS United of North Carolina and Samaritan’s Purse.