Eli Horton

2018 - 2021

Eli Hamilton Horton
December 26, 2018 - March 29, 2021
Eli Hamilton Horton had a contagious laugh, an impish spirit, and a joyous life. He spent every day of his 27 months smiling and the latter half of his time playing with his twin sister, imitating his big brother, chasing tunnels and loving mangos. The memory of Eli's little voice calling "Look at me!" [yelled as he launched himself off the couch] will warm the hearts of those that loved him. He was fearless, active and a light for anyone he encountered. His last moments on earth embodied his life—playing, splashing and indulging in an ounce of mischief. He is deeply missed by so many: parents Noah and Molly Horton, brother Zachary, twin sister Leah, grandparents Bonnie Loeb and David Horton, great grandmother Charlotte Schlitz as well as his community of extended family and friends, who are all so grateful to have had Eli as a gift for the last 2 years. Eli joins his grandmother, Catha Horton, and grandfather, Hamilton Loeb, with their butterfly wings. Those who miss him can visit his forthcoming bench at Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park—just at the bottom of Huntington Falls—where his eternal spark will continue to enjoy the sounds of children laughing, watching paddle boats and secretly feeding ducks (not that his family condones duck feeding… but EE was not constrained by rules).

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children 1-4 in the U.S.; may Eli's death be a vehicle for change (because Eli loved vehicles.) His family has established the Eli Hamilton Horton Memorial Endowment https://www.ymcasf.org/eli-hamilton-horton-memorial through the SF YMCA to provide equitable access for water safety swim lessons to SFUSD preschool and early elementary students. If you would like to honor Eli's memory please consider donating to his memorial fund.