Douglas Lee Horton

Douglas Lee Horton, formerly of Pine Street, Hornell, NY passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Steuben Center in Bath. He was 81 years old.

Doug was born on May 30, 1942, in Corning, New York to Wilbur and Delilah Horton. He was the oldest of 7 children. Doug graduated from Hornell High School and studied ceramic engineering and business at Alfred University.

Doug worked around the country, landing in Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Oregon and Massachusetts. He wore many hats during that time, including enlisting in the Army Reserves. He worked for Preheater, Martins Creek Power Plant, and Bechtel Engineering to name a few. After returning to Hornell, Doug took over his father’s business, Horton’s Rug and Furniture Cleaning, and sold Neptune water treatment systems, where he made many loyal connections.

Doug was an active member of the Hornell Kiwanis Club, where he volunteered his time and talent at events, including the annual Father’s Day Car show. Doug was also a member of the Elks Association, and a longtime member of the Arkport United Methodist Church. He often participated in the special music for Sunday services.

Doug was a talented musician, singer, and visual artist. He was in numerous bands and musical groups throughout his life including Starfire, Three Men of the Apocalypse, Spectrum, and Travelin’ Home. He played several instruments, and especially loved playing piano, guitar, harmonica, and banjo.

Doug’s biggest talent was connecting with people. His interest was genuine, and he could carry on a conversation with anyone who had the time to talk. He will be remembered for his boisterous singing voice, energetic conversations, and natural ability to befriend anyone who crossed his path.

Doug is survived by his wife of 40 years, Deborah, children, Cheri Horton and April (Jason) Loper both of Hornell, Michael (Tracey) Horton of Carlisle, PA, and Lori (Bryan) Ball of Rochester, his grandchildren, Lexi, Mackenzey, Gianna, David, Andrew, Madison, Charlee, Kaydi, Logan, Anthony, Dylon, Alexa, Ace, Parker, Makenna, and DJ, and his great grandchildren, Stella and Emilio. Doug is also survived by his siblings, Carolyn Horton, Diana (William) Lomax, Darlene Straub, Ronald Horton, Deborah Labarron, and Jeffrey Horton, his sister-in-law, Sharon (Rusty) Cornish, as well as his nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 10 from 1-2pm, for “Doug’s Social Hour” at the Bender-Brown and Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo St, Hornell. A service will be held at 2pm with Rev. Dena Stevens officiating. Friends and family are invited to gather at the Hornell Elks Lodge #364 60 Broadway Mall, Hornell immediately following the service.
To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown & Powers FH.