Mary Ellen Hornsby

1932 - 2018

Mary Ellen Booth Hornsby, passed away on June 15, 2018 at the age of 85. She was born in Newport News, Va., on June 19, 1932. She graduated from Newport News High School with the Class of 1951. She attended Longwood College and was member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority. Mary Ellen married her high school sweetheart, Swanson, on November 7, 1953. She was a member and sustainer of the Junior League of Hampton Roads, the National Society of the Colonial Dames, and a member and past president of the Shore Park Garden Club. Mary Ellen was a member of The Hidenwood Presbyterian Church, Circle One, and The Hidenwood Shepherds. She was a resident of The Chesapeake Retirement Community. Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her father, Hugh Miskell Booth, her Aunt Margorie and Uncle Mansell Reed Stevens, her mother Virginia Booth Young, and her beloved husband, Claude A. Swanson Hornsby, Jr. She is survived by sons, Claude A. Swanson "Chip" Hornsby, III and wife, Lynn, Hugh Booth Hornsby and wife, Beth, Steven Reed Hornsby and wife, Pam; grandchildren: Meagan Brooke Hornsby Morgan-husband Randy, Laura Elizabeth Hornsby Meeker-husband George, Caitlin Sarah Hornsby-fiancée Blake, Hugh "Booth" Hornsby, Jr.-wife Hannah, Aubrey Hornsby-fiancée Chris, Brice Marlin Swanson Hornsby-wife Brigid, Steven "Reed" Hornsby, Jr.-wife Lizz, and Ellen Phillips Hornsby; great-grandchildren: Vivian and Nelson Morgan, Monroe and Hailey Meeker, and Camdyn Ritenour; twin brothers, William-wife Christi and John-wife Robin Young; sister-in-law, Genis Hornsby; nephews, Robert Hornsby, Jr.-wife Sandy, Mark Hornsby-wife Kandy, David Hornsby-wife Patti; niece, Genis Hornsby Brown-husband Ben; and close family friend Rick Nelson-wife Martha. Mary Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, as well as, a loyal friend to many people. She was the epitome of southern grace and hospitality as she warmly welcomed people of all ages to her home. She and Swanson were known for opening their doors and hearts to friends of their sons, extended family members, and people throughout their community. Mary Ellen made it a point to remember their names so she could greet each personally at the door. Mary Ellen was never empty handed whenever the grandchildren or great grandchildren visited. She provided all sorts of gifts that she enthusiastically played along with them. For those who lived away she routinely called and would send surprise packages. Her family will remember with fondness the many sheet cakes over the years, the plethora of ziplock bags and the bottomless pocketbook that carried all sorts of amazing treasures. Mary Ellen's zest for life, love, and deep commitment to her family and friends, and devotion to her faith will serve as her living legacy to those fortunate enough to have known and loved her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered. Her family is grateful for the kind, compassionate care she received in the Health Care Unit at the Chesapeake. She was tended to by an incredibly devoted staff and we greatly appreciate each of them. Mary Ellen's life will be celebrated by Pastor Bill Lamont on Monday, June 18, 2018, at 2 p.m., at The Chesapeake. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hidenwood Presbyterian Church, 414 Hiden Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23606.