Evelyn Hathaway Horton

In Loving Memory of Evelyn (Evie) Horton
Evelyn (Evie) Horton, 81, of South Portland, ME, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on December 1, 1943, in Glen Ridge, NJ, Evie lived a life full of joy, compassion, and dedication to others. A 1961 graduate from Adelphi Academy in Brooklyn, NY, Evie went on to earn her bachelor's degree in 1965 from Bates College in Lewiston, ME. Her passion for learning and teaching led her to pursue two master's degrees from the University of Southern Maine - one in English and the other in Education.
Evie devoted 34 years to shaping young minds and nurturing school communities. She began her career as a kindergarten teacher before transitioning to a teaching principal at Buxton Primary School. She later served as assistant principal at the Young School in Saco. In 1995, Evie became principal at Whitefield School and later held leadership roles in Scarborough at Wentworth Intermediate School as assistant principal and Pleasant Hill Elementary School, where she served as principal for ten years before retiring. Her legacy in education is marked by her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues.
Beyond her professional life, Evie was a vibrant spirit who cherished time with family and friends. She was a loving wife, (step)mother, and Grammie, whose laughter and kindness touched everyone she met. She found joy in line dancing, playing mahjong, reading, golfing, and sharing lunches with friends. For many years, her favorite place was Kettle Cove, where she basked in the sun and sand while enjoying a good book.
Evie was an active member (secretary) of the Cumberland County Retired Educators Association (CCREA) and decades long member of the Biddeford Saco Country Club.
Evie's life was a beautiful blend of joy, love, and grace. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Evie was predeceased by her beloved parents, Edward and Dorcas Hathaway; her sister, Dorcas Alley; and her grandson, Brendan Horton.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 37 years, Michael W. Horton of South Portland; her sons, Tom Turner (and his wife Chris) and Chad Turner, both of Hollis; and her stepchildren, Michael R. Horton and Michelle Horton, both of South Portland, and Andrea Tibbetts of Steep Falls.
Evie was a proud and loving grandmother to John Turner, Sean Turner (Raegan), Jennifer Reed (Josh); Lauren Turner, Jake Turner (Angie), Zachary Horton (Bethany), Caden Horton, Benjamin Tibbetts, Lily Tibbetts and Alex Horton. She is also survived by her adorable great-grandchildren, Declan Horton and Morgan Turner.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated members of the South Portland Police, Fire & Rescue Departments. They are also so very thankful for the extraordinary care and grace shown by the staff at the MaineHealth Critical Care Unit.
A celebration of Evie's life will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Hobbs Funeral Home, located at 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. Visiting hours will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at noon. A reception will be held immediately afterward in the Hospitality Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be mailed in Evie's memory to The Good Shepherd Food Bank, 3121 Hotel Rd, Auburn, ME 04210 or online at https://giving.gsfb.org/give.