Alice Van Horn

February 20, 1949 – April 16, 2026

Alice Sue (Hughes) Van Horn, Sevierville, our amazing, strong, capable Mom and Granny has completed her journey and has entered in to everlasting joy in the presence of her Savior. Alice was born February 20, 1949 in Helena, Arkansas to Edgar and Alice Hughes. She was the youngest of three daughters who were dearly loved by their parents. Alice grew up in the rich agricultural areas of California where she enjoyed the simple treasures in life; faith and family and hard work. She lived on produce ranches in the western side of the San Joaquin Valley, attending schools in Mendota and Tranquility Union High.

Alice was a vivacious and lively child. She learned to play the harmonica at the age of three and spent a lifetime entertaining her friends and family. She had many wonderful memories of fun adventures with cousins and younger aunts and uncles. She was always a central figure in making mischief, as well as the warm, nurturing moments with her loved ones. Alice was present for others in the times of celebration or loss, people knew they mattered to her. Her wit and wisdom were a source of comfort and strength for all who knew her. She had the unique ability to be the family historian, keeping track of people, places, dates and times. Her life is a testimony of one who loved well.

Alice met the love of her life, Johnny Van Horn, when they were 9 and 12 respectively. They grew up together, sharing many mutual friends and experiences before dating in high school. They married on October 8, 1965 and remained devoted for 59 years, until his passing in 2024. Their lifetime of love and laughter endured through the ages and could not be diminished with the sting of death. Today, they are reunited forever.

To Alice, her family was everything and there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for them. Although a young wife and mother, she was fiercely devoted to her husband and children. Her priority was their care and well-being. She was determined to give her children the best life possible. From managing a drive-in restaurant, to production and manufacturing. Alice worked hard at various jobs throughout her life. She did not shy away from hard work and was known for her efficiency and responsibility in the workplace. Alice taught her children the importance of becoming people of value by modeling self-sufficiency and excellence in all that she did. Our mother was an immaculate housekeeper, bookkeeper, and manager of all the affairs of her life. She imparted a rich legacy that lives on to a fourth generation. Everything she accomplished is a reflection of the love and pride she has for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

As much as she was devoted to her family, Alice was devoted to her faith first and foremost. She was a long-time member of Madera Pentecostal Church of God and recently, The Church of God of the Union Assembly Knoxville. Alice applied the same excellence and passion when it came to serving in her church. She had a gift for singing and ministered to many through it, She led through her connection and support to many pastors and their wives, Alice was a true friend to those in ministry.

Alice/Mom/Granny is survived in life by those who will miss her most. Her daughter Stephanie Wheeler and husband Doug, son Johnny Jr and wife Jody, 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Caroline Murphy and husband Daniel and Pat Keyes. Alice is preceded in death by husband Johnny Sr., parents Edgar and Alice Hughes and two brothers, Louis and Johnny.

Alice's love and devotion has impacted the lives of all who loved her. She left a space no one can fill. She will be dearly missed.

Graveside services will be held Friday, April 24th at 2:00PM at New Grey Cemetery. Condolences may be left at www.weaverfuneralservices.com.