Bonnie Kay Horton

Bonnie Kay Horton, 79, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away on March 5, 2026, at Serenity Estates in Lena, Illinois. Born on August 6, 1946, in Savanna, Illinois, she was the daughter of Delbert and Virginia (Airhart) Haring. A 1964 graduate of Elizabeth High School, Bonnie continued her education at Freeport Community College, graduating in 1967. That same year, on June 10, she married Billy Joe Horton in Elizabeth, Illinois. Bill preceded her in death on February 1, 2023.

Over the years, Bonnie worked in various roles throughout the Freeport area, including with Freeport School District 145, Micro Switch, Open Bible Daycare, and as bookkeeper for her husband’s construction business. A longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Freeport, she was known for her warm and genuine spirit. Bonnie’s unique laugh could light up any room, and she found joy in writing poetry, often sharing her verses with family and friends. A devoted animal lover, she cherished her pet schnauzers throughout her life.

She is survived by her children, Michelle Baumgartner and Robert (Melissa) Horton; her brother, Albert (Linda) Haring; five grandchildren, Megan (Armond) Hollins, Brady Horton, Bryce Horton, Samantha Baumgartner, and Nolan Rundall; and many nieces and nephews. Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her sister, Eleanora Hutchison.