William "Bill" Horton

William George Horton, known to friends and family as Bill, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, at the age of 83.

Bill was the beloved husband of the late Donna Horton (nee Formick) and a devoted father to Robert (Kevin) Horton and Lauren (Michael) Austin. He was a proud and loving Papa to Brad (Danielle) Horton, Maddie Horton, Evelyn Horton, Matthew Austin, and Ryan Austin, who brought him great joy.

He is also survived by his brother John (Sandra) Horton. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Beatrice Horton, and his brother Frank (Geraldine) Horton.

Bill proudly served his community as a police officer for the City of Euclid and later for Chagrin Falls. He also served his country as a member of the Ohio National Guard. A dedicated worker and devoted family man, Bill was rarely still. He was known for often working multiple jobs to provide for his family, frequently completing his regular police shift and then heading to additional guarding jobs. His tireless work ethic ensured that his family wanted for nothing.

Those who knew Bill admired and often marveled at his ability to make a dollar stretch. He was savvy when it came to saving and investing the money he worked so hard to earn, always thinking about the future and the well-being of his family.

Bill will also be remembered as an incredible neighbor and friend. If he saw a need, he never hesitated to lend a hand—whether it was cutting a neighbor’s grass or clearing snow from their driveway. He took great pride in his beautiful yard and worked tirelessly to keep it looking perfect. Many of his grandchildren fondly remember being recruited to help clean up the woods around the house, picking up twigs and sticks as part of Papa’s yard projects.

Bill had a lifelong love of cars, especially Corvettes. A dedicated car enthusiast and member of the Corvette Club, he cared for his cars as if they were his babies—always meticulously maintained. For Bill, driving meant freedom, and he often took spontaneous trips simply to enjoy the open road.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by hard work, generosity, and love for his family. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the values he instilled in those who loved him.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 10 from 9:30–11:00 a.m. at Divine Word Catholic Church, 8100 Eagle Road, Kirtland, Ohio, followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Lake View Cemetery.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them following the interment to share good food and memories of Bill at 2:00 p.m. at Pine Ridge Country Club, 30601 Ridge Road, Wickliffe, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: FOP of Ohio Foundation, 222 East Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

Bill will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.