Darleen (DeeDee) Payne Horne, 64 years of age, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 25th, after a hard-fought battle with ALS. DeeDee was born in Stafford, Virginia, and later moved to Hampton, Virginia to “retire near the water”.
She leaves behind her devoted and loving husband of 17 years, F. Gregg Horne, Jr., her Punkin, Allison Rozewicz and her “babies” Alainnah and Asher, her stepsons that she loved as her own – Tyler Horne (Amy) and their kids Aiden and Brenna, and Christopher Horne (AnneCallie) and their boys, Archer and Ethan; parents Joyce and Donnie Payne, brothers Dale Payne (Debbie) and Dean Payne (Meri), best friend and cousin Pamela Goforth, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She also leaves behind a legacy of well loved and cared for dogs, which was her life’s mission.
DeeDee was born and raised in Hartwood, Virginia, graduating from Stafford High School in 1975. She worked for several local employers including the Sheraton Inn Fredericksburg, Wyland/Neodata, and Cardiology Associates of Fredericksburg, before leaving office life to take up her true passion, pet sitting. DeeDee spent the remainder of her healthy years caring for many, many dogs and cats, and she loved every moment.
DeeDee loved life near the ocean with her husband Gregg, taking frequent trips to the beach, going to see live bands, and enjoying local seafood. She loved ballroom and shag dancing with Gregg, and many of her friends and family have fond memories of sharing the dancefloor with her. She had a zest for life, an infectious smile and laugh, and loved being of service to her friends, family, and church communities.
A celebration of life will take place at Richland Baptist Church in Hartwood, Virginia on Saturday, May 7th, 2022. Visitation will take place from 11:00 am to 12:00pm, with the service following at noon. Interment will take place immediately following the service, and all are welcome to join the family for a reception in the fellowship hall at the conclusion of the gravesite service.
In lieu of flowers, DeeDee requested that donations be made to an animal charity of your choosing.