Barbara Jean Horton

Born on December 14, 1939 in Campbell Nebraska, Barbara grew up on the family farm and graduated from Upland High School in 1957. In 1962, Barbara married Glen Horton of Roseland Nebraska and moved with him and their growing family to places west, including Helena Montana, Sheridan Wyoming, and Lakewood Colorado, before permanently settling in Greeley Colorado in 1975. Barbara was secretary at Surgical Associates in Greeley from 1979-1981. In 1981, Barbara and Glen risked it all, cashed in their life savings and opened BJ Liquor, a family-owned and operated liquor store that was frequented by many. Barbara was known for her organizational abilities, resilience, work ethic, devotion to family, and her faith. She had a generous spirit that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Barbara built a life rooted in love—love for Glen, her family, her friends, and the simple joys provided by Jackson Reservoir, traveling, and her nearly famous dog Peanut. Barbara and Glen enjoyed traveling to places like Alaska, Hawaii, Spain, Italy, and all four corners of the United States. Barbara even helped build a Rose Bowl float in Pasadena, California. Barbara was a member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Greeley, Colorado, where she helped with communion on a regular basis. Whether she was balancing the liquor store’s books, hosting a party, or meeting new friends on the road, Barbara made others feel valued.

She is survived by her three children: Mark Horton (Christa), Valerie Sherman (Scott), and Scott Horton (Jennifer), all of Greeley; five grandchildren (Julie, Trevor, Natalie, Colby, and Lainey), four great grandchildren (Camryn, Allisyn, Otis, and Kyara) and her sister-in-law Mary Horton. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, parents (Edna and Medouse Roy), sisters (Celeste Roy and Marilyn Ferguson), brother (Delbert Roy), brothers-in-law (LaVerne Horton, Bernard Parr, Richard Horton, and Bob Ferguson), and sisters-in-law (Evelyn Horton and Madelyn Parr).

A service to honor Barbara’s life will be held at 11am on May 22, 2026 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Windsor, Colorado, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Pathways Hospice, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church of Windsor, or Saint Mary Catholic Church of Greeley.

Barbara’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. She will be deeply missed.