Carole Cason Horton

Born April 16, 1932, in Savannah, Georgia, Carole was the daughter of the late Mamie (Taylor) Cason and John J. Cason. Following the death of her mother at birth, she was raised by her maternal grandparents, Hattie and Zachary Taylor, along with her aunt Francis LaVoice. She grew up surrounded by a large close-knit, extended family and maintained lifelong bonds with her siblings and cousins, whom she cherished as brothers and sisters.

Carole, devoted wife and mother who raised four children with her husband, Colonel Joseph R. Horton Sr., a United States Air Force officer and pilot. Throughout his distinguished career, she was a constant source of strength and support, actively involved in the Air Force community both as a leader and a mentor to many. Of all her many contributions her most cherished was managing a Officer's Wives Club consignment store for the benefit of young enlisted forces and families in need.

Beyond her dedication to family and military life, through her unwavering belief she was a devoted, faithful servant of the Lord. She was a long-standing member of the Lord of Life, Lutheran Church in California and Wesley Memorial Methodist Church in South Carolina.

Carole was passionate about the sport of purebred dogs. She bred, raised, and exhibited top-winning Great Danes and earned the respect of her peers for her knowledge, integrity and commitment to the breed. She was a long-time member of the Great Dane Club of California, where she served as the Treasurer for many years. After relocating to South Carolina with her daughter Susan, who shared her passion, Carole continued her involvement in the dog community as a proud member of the Charleston Kennel Club.

Carole will be remembered for her strength, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her legacy endures through her family, her contributions to the world of purebred dogs, and the countless lives she touched with her guidance, kindness, and generosity. Carole’s exceptional sense of style, adventurous spirit, and infectious sense of humor will remain forever in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Carole is preceded in death by her beloved husband, COL Joseph Richard Horton, Sr.; her parents, John and Mamie (Taylor) Cason; daughter, Laura Horton; son, Joseph Horton, Jr.

Carole is survived by her daughter, Susan Richards (Kent); son, Stephen Horton (Christina); her grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and extended family members who will continue to honor and cherish her memory.

Carole will be laid to rest on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the National Cemetery in Riverside, California. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fisher House Foundation and The Great Dane Club of America, Charitable Trust.

Presiding Pastor: Reverend Kent Tuohino of Trinity Lutheran Church of Riverside, California.