ELKHART — Mrs. Gloria J. Horton, 49, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at home following an extended bout with cancer on Sunday evening, Dec. 24, 2017.

She was born Jan. 19, 1969 in Chicago, to Louis O'Neal of Elkhart and Gloria J. (Williams) O'Neal of Goshen.

On Aug. 31, 1992 she married Michael R. Horton who survives her at home.

Also surviving are her daughters AnaAlicia (Dennius) O'Neal Peoples, Sharita, Michelle and Shabrina Sanders, LaFarrah Harris and LaTorea Ware, all of Elkhart; sons Michael and Keith Horton, Charman Wheeler and Jermayle Taylor, all of Elkhart; brothers Douglas O'Neal of Chicago and Louis O'Neal, Jr. and Maverick Taylor, both of Elkhart; sisters Charmaine O'Neal of Chicago, Trena (Winard) Anderson of South Bend, Yvette (Wilson) Hoof of Chicago and Phillis Taylor of Elkhart; special brother and sister Marcus Anderson of Michigan City and Regina Gross of Goshen; 20 grandchildren; a great grandchild and a host of loving nieces, nephews and dear friends.

In accordance with Gloria's wishes, no immediate services have been scheduled and cremation is to take place.

Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart has been assisting the family with arrangements.

Gloria was employed at Utilimaster of Elkhart up until her illness required her early retirement. At work, she was jokingly known as the "jack of all trades; master of none", but at home, she was a loving and caring daughter, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt.

She had the unique ability to find good in every person and situation and was thought of being the heartbeat of her family. She particularly enjoyed helping others, and was often considered to be a lighthouse in the midst of another's storm.

Memorial donations may be given in her memory to her husband, Michael.