Abby Horton of Salem, Wisconsin, was a dean’s list student in the aviation program at Southern Illinois University and a bright light to anyone she encountered. She enjoyed having new adventures and the freedom of flying.

Horton died Nov. 15 at the age of 20, leaving her family and friends, the aviation program and many others feeling sorrowful. 

“Abby was a vibrant and magnetic young woman who loved spending time with her friends, vacationing with her family, Country Thunder, boating, fishing in Canada, spending time with her cousins, grandma’s mashed potatoes and grafting,” her obituary reads.

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Her passion for aviation will be missed at Southern.

“Abby was such a joy to be around for her colleagues and friends in the school of aviation. She was a great aviator and friend and will be sorely missed by anyone who knew her,” Interim Director of Aviation, Michael Burgener said.

Services for Horton took place Nov. 25.

The Horton family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Abby’s honor can be made to the JED foundation or NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Health Illness.

If anyone needs mental health services, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available to help students by calling 618-453-5371 and the National Crisis Hotline can be reached by texting 988. 

Reporter Joei Younker can be reached at [email protected].

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