Barbara J Horton

Barbara Jean Horton, 66, passed away on December 29, 2025, following complications from surgery. She was born on April 15, 1959, in Plattsburgh, New York, and lived a life marked by adventure, dedication, and deep love for family, animals, and community. As the daughter of Air Force parents, Barbara experienced a childhood shaped by travel and change, living in places such as Colorado, the Philippines, and Florida. After her father retired from the United States Air Force, the family settled in Oklahoma, where he worked at Tinker Air Force Base. Oklahoma would ultimately become the place Barbara called home. Barbara attended Rogers Middle School, where she began playing the trumpet in the sixth grade, a passion she carried through her graduation from Del City High School in 1977. Her love for music reflected her discipline, creativity, and determination. Throughout her working life, Barbara was known for her strong work ethic and adaptability. She worked for Jasco Electronics, manufacturers of communication products, served as a machinist at Pomco, Inc. circulating Triplex pump products, and spent many years at Tinker Air Force Base until her retirement. Never one to remain idle, Barbara returned to the workforce at Bass Pro Shops before officially retiring in 2020. Her generous heart led her to volunteer with SSM Health, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping others. Barbara was a devoted member of St. Luke’s Church in Oklahoma City. In 2010, she married the love of her life, Michael Horton. Together, they shared countless adventures—camping, boating, attending NASCAR and motorcycle races, cheering on her beloved Oklahoma Sooners, and flying across the country. Barbara even considered receiving her pilot's license and loved to fly with Michael, always eager for the time together. Michael says he considered her his cockpit resource manager and loved when she flew along. Barbara also had a deep love for animals and treasured her pets dearly. Those who knew Barbara will remember her as kind, loyal, and full of quiet strength. She found joy in the simple moments and took pride in living life fully and honestly. Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Michael Horton; her stepson, Matthew Horton; her sister, Debbie Gray and husband Rodney; sisters-in-law Tracie Wade and husband Aaron, Kristie Botkin and husband Mark; brother-in-law Rodger Horton and wife Terri; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Ruby Hawk, and her father- and mother-in-law, Gale and Minnie Horton. Barbara Jean Horton will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her legacy of dedication, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local animal shelter. Visitation will be Tuesday January 13th, 2026 at Resthaven Funeral Home, 44909 Hwy 3, Shawnee, OK, 74801 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday January 14th, at 2:00 PM at Resthaven Memorial Park located right next to Resthaven Funeral Home.