Karen Lee Horton

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Karen Lee Horton

of Nichols

Karen Lee Horton, a cherished gift born on Christmas Day in 1944, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Her 79 years of life were marked by love, generosity, and a friendly spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew her. Karen's journey began in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, where she was welcomed into the world by her parents, Wesley A. and Pauline C. Middleton. She grew up surrounded by the warmth and camaraderie of her siblings Bob, Joe, Billy, Marlene, and Phyllis, forging bonds that would last a lifetime.

Karen's educational pursuits took her to Tioga Central High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1962. Her passion for beauty and style led her to attend Pauldine's Beauty School, subsequently blessing the community with her talent by operating a beauty shop in her home and on Main Street in Nichols.

On August 5, 1977, Karen married her soulmate, Wayne "Doc" Horton, encapsulating a love story that would resonate through the years. Although Doc passed away in 1991, their bond remained a cornerstone of Karen's life. Her career also included a period where she assisted her sister, Phyllis, in the operation of Mike's Showtime, showcasing the special bond she shared with her siblings.

Karen's interests painted the picture of a woman who embraced the joys of life. She relished in the competitive spirit of playing shuffleboard with her brothers and found companionship and joy in her German Shepherd pups, Jasper and Lainey. Her monthly trips to the casino and social gatherings at the Sayre American Legion were punctuated by laughter and camaraderie. Above all, Karen treasured her family, a source of endless pride and love.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Teri and Eric Bomboy, and her adored grandchildren, Robert and Cheyenne Lathrop, Justin Lathrop and Adam Bomboy. Karen's light will continue to shine through her siblings: Bob and Sherry Middleton, Joe and Donna Middleton, Bill and Mary Ellen Middleton. Her fingerprint will also be left on the hearts of her special nieces and nephews: Jeffrey, Nicole, Jennifer, Adam, Valerie, Stacy, Christopher, Ryan, Ashley, Marcy, Tim, and Sue, along with their families, who will carry forward her spirit of generosity and affection.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband Doc, her sisters Marlene Humpal and Phyllis Sawyer, and a special nephew Michael Sawyer. Yet, even in loss, her life's narrative is one of enduring connections and heartfelt moments.

We will gather for a period of visitation on Tuesday, October 15th from 10 -12 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 237 S. Main St., Nichols. A funeral service and celebration of her life will follow at 12 pm with Pastor Larry Jennings, officiating. Karen will be laid to rest next to her husband in the Tioga Point Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those unable to attend the service may watch the live stream at:

https://my.gather.app/remember/karen-horton-2024

Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Nichols Fire & Emergency Squad, PO Box 336, Nichols, NY 13812 or the Sayre American Legion, 171 Cayuta St., Sayre, PA 18840 in loving memory of Karen Lee Horton.

As we remember Karen, we recall the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Karen's love and joy have indeed become a part of all who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of love and warmth will continue to resonate, reminding us of the preciousness of family, the joy of friendship, and the beauty of a life lived with an open heart.