Recent Obituaries

Joan Marie (Gerber) Horner, 74, of Kent, Washington, entered eternal rest peacefully at her home on Christmas Eve, 2025. A devoted Catholic, loving mother, wife, sister, daughter, and friend, Joan lived her life rooted in faith, service, and love. She now rests in the peace of Christ, surrounded by God’s eternal mercy.

Joan was born on January 12, 1951, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Thomas Gerber Sr. and Donna Gerber. From an early age, she embodied a servant’s heart and carried that calling throughout her life. She dedicated herself fully to her family and found profound joy in God’s creation, especially in caring for her animals, including horses, chickens, dogs, and cats. After a peaceful day spent tending to them, she would often say, “It is well with my soul,” reflecting her deep trust in God’s providence.

A lifelong learner, Joan believed that growth was a gift from God and embraced new experiences with courage and curiosity. She encouraged those around her to pursue their dreams, often saying, “Well, let’s find a way to make it happen.” Her faith was lived through action—volunteering at church, serving as a youth group leader, and faithfully supporting her children in all they did.

Joan most cherished watching her daughters, Anna and Sara, and her son, Quinn, ride horses, and cheering on Quinn at his club volleyball matches. She held a master’s degree in international business, graduated summa cum laude as the top student in her college class, worked as a Spanish teacher, and dedicated more than 30 years of service to United Airlines. She loved traveling and discovering new places, playing volleyball, riding horses, and tending to a vibrant, colorful garden each spring. In all things, she sought to glorify God by loving others well.

Joan is survived by her husband, Lawrence “Buzz” Horner Jr. of Kent, Washington; her daughter, Anna Horner of Bellevue, Washington; her son, Quinn Horner of Kent, Washington; her sisters, Jane Stark and Mary Kuehl of Wisconsin; her brothers, Dan Gerber and Thomas Gerber of Wisconsin; and her mother, Donna Gerber of Wisconsin. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Sara Horner, whom she now rejoins in the loving arms of our Lord.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Joan’s life and faith will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 25810 156th Ave SE, Covington, WA 98042, on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to attend and share memories as we gather to honor and celebrate Joan’s life.

A reception will follow the Mass and will be held in a potluck-style format, as Joan deeply loved sharing food, fellowship, and community with family and friends. Guests are invited to bring a dish to share as we gather one final time in the spirit Joan cherished so much.

Joan’s burial will take place at Washington Memorial Park in SeaTac. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the Bonney Watson office, 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. to proceed together to the gravesite.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support Joan’s family as they navigate funeral and end-of-life expenses, ongoing medical costs, and essential living needs during this difficult time:
https://gofund.me/360771128

The Horner family thanks you for your prayers, love, and support, and asks that you share this memorial with anyone whose life was touched by Joan. Please visit her online tribute page at Cady Cremation Services website (Obituary Section) to leave a condolence message or share a favorite memory.