Betty John Hornbarger

Betty John Scogin Hornbarger, affectionately known by those close to her as Betty John, passed away gracefully on January 11, 2025, at the age of 93 in San Antonio, TX. Born on August 6, 1931, in the small town of Kosse, TX, Betty's early years in Kosse were filled with the warmth of a close-knit family. She was the cherished daughter of William Jefferson Scogin and Ruby Estelle Scogin, both of whom predeceased her along with her siblings Billy Ray Scogin, Bonnie Dale Rochester, and Mary Jo Clinger. The family bond remained a cornerstone of her life, Her younger brother, Freddie Jack Scogin, remains a testament to the enduring Scogin family spirit.

Betty's heart was joined with that of Col. Harold Allen Hornbarger in May of 1956 and together they built a life rich in love and shared endeavors. Allen's passing left an indelible mark on Betty, yet her strength and capacity for love never waned. She was a devoted mother to her two children, Melissa Bedard and William Allen Hornbarger, who reflect her loving, thoughtful, and creative nature.

Betty's zest for life was evident in her wide array of interests. Her hands were rarely still, as she found joy and purpose in quilting, creating beautiful heirlooms for her children. Her love for the game of bridge was more than a pastime; it was a conduit for her to connect with friends and engage in the strategic play that she so enjoyed. Betty possessed an innate flair for interior design, transforming spaces into warm, inviting environments that reflected her impeccable taste and the welcoming essence of her soul.

Gardening was another of Betty's passions, an endeavor that allowed her to cultivate beauty and tranquility in her surroundings. The serenity of her garden was a reflection of the peace she nurtured within herself and extended to those around her. Her penchant for shopping for antiques was not merely a hobby but a pursuit of history and storytelling, as she cherished each piece for the narrative it held.

Those who knew Betty would describe her as the epitome of loving kindness. Her thoughtful gestures and tender care for others were her trademarks, leaving an indelible impression on the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Creative in her endeavors and innovative in her thinking, Betty was a beacon of inspiration to her family and friends. Her legacy is not only in the beautiful items she created or the gardens she tended but in the love she cultivated in her relationships.

As we say goodbye to Betty, we reflect on a life lived with grace, beauty, and an unending capacity for love. Her memory will continue to bloom in the gardens she tended, in the quilts that wrap her loved ones in warmth, and in the hearts of everyone she touched. Betty's life was a journey of joy, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to those she held dear.

While we mourn the loss of such a remarkable soul, we also celebrate the legacy of Betty John Scogin Hornbarger, a woman who was truly the heart of her family and an emblem of love and creativity in her community. Her spirit, forever stitched into the fabric of our lives, will continue to guide and comfort us just as the quilts she made with such care and artistry. Betty's story is one of a life beautifully lived and lovingly remembered.

A private family graveside service will be held on Friday March 28th at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Betty John will be interred with her beloved Allen.