Adonna J. Horton

GENEVA - Adonna J. Horton passed away after a long and courageous journey with cancer. Throughout her life, she faced challenges with remarkable strength, grace, and determination while remaining devoted to the people she loved most.

Born on March 24, 1949, to Raymond and Virginia (DeLand) DeRuyter, Adonna was a lifelong resident of Geneva and a graduate of Geneva High School, Class of 1967. Adonna was also a proud member of the Geneva Appleknockers Drum and Bugle Corps, where she enjoyed the friendships and memories made through her participation.

Adonna retired from Ontario County Social Services in 2005 after 20 years of service. She was also one of the original employees of Phelps Veterinary Hospital, where she worked in various capacities and devoted countless years to caring for animals before retiring in 2018. Her compassion for animals and commitment to their care made her a valued colleague and friend.

Adonna’s greatest joys in life were her family, camping season, and taking walks along the lake with her beloved canine companions. She shared her home and heart with countless four-legged and some three-legged family members over the years, often opening her doors to animals that others overlooked. Her love for dogs also led her to enjoy participating in and training with Merle and his friends on the Brody’s Boot Camp Drill Team.

Family was at the center of Adonna’s life. She shared a special bond with her grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them, whether during summer vacations, girls’ trips, family picnics, or everyday visits. The memories they created together will be cherished forever.

Adonna was predeceased by her husband of 25 years, Ron Horton; her parents, Raymond and Virginia DeRuyter; her son, Michael Horton; and her granddaughters, Hannah and Abigail Knaak.

She is survived by her children, Mike (Sue) Reifsteck, Rachel (Joe) Fairman, Andrea (Mike) Knaak, Scott (Shelly) Horton, and Steve (Karen) Horton; her grandchildren, Taylor Fairman, Brittany (Paul) Yaxis, Francis Feely, Brad (Stephanie) Feely, and Richelle and Jacey Brooks; her great-grandchildren, Nakeisha Parmer, Jordan Brooks, Landon, Elliana, Emersyn, and Savanna Yaxis; her brother and sister-in-law, Raymond and Carol DeRuyter; and several special friends and cousins.

Adonna’s kindness, resilience, generosity, and unconditional love for both family and animals will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A special thank you to Missy, Bretlyn, Mackenzie, Becca, and Morgan for the respect, care, and unwavering support they showed Adonna and her family during her journey.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Adonna’s life at Seneca Lake State Park Pavilion on Thursday, June 18th at 3 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an animal rescue organization or charity of the donor’s choice in honor of Adonna’s lifelong love of animals.

For tributes and condolences, please visit www.mcguiganberofuneralhome.com