Raelene V. Horton

Hastings resident Raelene Val Horton, passed away Saturday August 9, 2025, at Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital with her family by her side. 

Honoring Raelene’s wishes, there will be no services. Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Start Over Rover, both non-profits very near to Raelene and her family. 

Raelene was born February 12, 1946, in Hastings, NE, to Leonard and Ruth (Bruns) Schuck. She attended school at Glenvil, NE. She was employed by Knights of Columbus and Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital for many years. She married A Lee Rollins on May 28, 1962. To that union four daughters were born: Kim, Vonnie, Paige and Amy. Raelene married Ronald Horton on August 22, 1987, gaining two bonus children, Steve and Tracey. 

Raelene is leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an ever-expanding family that went far beyond blood relations. 

Known for her infectious smile and sense of humor, Raelene found her greatest joy in the simple moments spent with family. Her home was always filled with the sounds of laughter and meandering conversations that had a way of delightfully derailing into unexpected topics that has led to many family favorite highlight reels. 

She possessed a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family, opening her heart and home to any friends or "extras" her daughters brought through the door. No one ever left her house feeling hungry or unloved. Her maternal instincts extended well beyond her own children, as she naturally became a second mom to countless others throughout the years. 

Her silly nature and playful approach to life taught those around her that the best memories are often made in unplanned moments. Whether she was sharing stories at the kitchen table or offering comfort to someone in need, Raelene’s kindness and huge heart touched everyone she met. 

Her legacy lives on in the laughter she inspired, the unconditional love she shared, and the reminder that family isn't always about blood – it's about who makes room in their heart for others. 

Raelene was preceded in death by her parents. 

She is survived by her husband, Ron; sister, Vicki (Gary) McDonald of Richardson, TX; children, Kim (Jay) Fowler of Council Bluffs, IA, Vonnie (Scott) of Lincoln, NE, Paige (Bob) Clark of Kenesaw, NE, Amy (Josh) Russell of Hastings, NE, Steve (Barb) Horton of Papillon NE, and Tracey (Ashley) of Huntsville AL; 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren (and one on the way).