Barbara Horton, 85, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026. She was born on February 21, 1941, in Greer, S.C., to Nell and Carl Elder. Her early life helped shape the remarkable woman she would become. She grew up in humble and often difficult circumstances, living with her grandparents along with her mother and brothers. While life on a farm required hard work, their home was always filled with love. It was during these years that Barbara’s strong foundation of faith and deep devotion to family were formed — values that would guide her throughout her life.

She was married in 1960 to Ronald Horton, the one and only love of her life, who preceded her in death. Barbara was also preceded in death by her parents, Nell and Carl Elder, and her brothers, Jimmy Elder and Wayne Elder.

She is survived by her loving children, Rhonda Olivera and her husband John, and Tony Horton and his wife Tracey. She was a proud grandmother to Brock Durfee; Hunter Durfee and his wife Shelby; Jordan Webb Brown and her husband Brad; Zack Horton; Lauren Horton; Rachel Olivera; Hali Burnette and her husband Jason; and Shelby Olivera and her husband Michael. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren, who brought her much joy. Additional survivors are sisters-in-law, Julia Dobbins, Maxine Elder, and Farrah Elder, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Barbara spent many years living in Matthews, N.C., with her family and built her career in Charlotte. She worked as a personnel manager for more than 30 years at Kmart. During her time there, she made many lifelong friends and took great pride in helping young people find their first employment opportunities, leaving a lasting impact on many lives. Barbara retired from Kmart at age 60 and devoted the rest of her life to what she loved most – her family, to whom she was deeply dedicated.

Barbara found her greatest happiness in caring for her family, providing daily love, guidance, and support to her children and grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life. Her dedication to her family was unwavering — she was always present, always giving, and always putting the needs of those she loved first. Everyone wanted a “Nana” like Barbara Horton.

She loved sports and had a strong competitive spirit. As a former teammate herself, she understood the value of teamwork, which made her an even greater fan. She was the loudest voice in the stands, fiercely cheering on her children and grandchildren, while also taking the time to get to know other families and support their children as well. Her energy, enthusiasm, and competitive nature were unmistakable and brought joy and laughter to those around her. So many of the Nana stories people recall involved sports.

Barbara was the fiercest advocate for those she loved and a constant source of encouragement. At the same time, she believed in honesty and accountability — always telling it like it is and guiding her loved ones by both her example and her words. She also had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh, bringing warmth, smiles and lightness to those around her.

Many people describe Barbara as truly one of a kind. She touched countless lives in meaningful ways –whether quietly helping someone through a difficult time, being a trusted friend and confidant, offering a listening ear and guidance, or providing a meal at any hour of the day, or night. She had a remarkable way of showing up for people exactly when they needed it most.

Above all, Barbara’s love for the Lord was the foundation of her life. She was steadfast in her faith, spending time each day reading her Bible, listening to her favorite Christian music, and watching the Word preached. She lived out her faith in a way that was evident to all — through her strength, her kindness, her compassion, and her undeniable love for others. She was a beautiful example of what a Christian life looks like. If you knew Barbara, you knew you were blessed.

Barbara will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her strength, her joyful spirit, and the deep love she shared so freely. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and in the family she cherished.

A receiving of friends will be held on April 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, 494 E Plaza Drive, Mooresville, N.C. (704-664-3363).

A celebration of life will be held on April 11 at 1 p.m. at Weddington Methodist Church, 13901 Providence Road, Weddington, N.C. (704-846-1032), followed by the burial at Forest Lawn East Cemetery, 3700 Forest Lawn Drive, Weddington, N.C. (704-846-1068).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Greenville, S.C., or to your local Hospice Care organization.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is serving the family.