Kendra Horton

Kendra Vanise Horton, ("KD"), was born on January 21, 1971, in Lansing, Michigan, Kendra was the first and only child to Henry Horton and oldest daughter of two to Sherly Horton.

At an early age, she was baptized at Union Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Charles Patterson, planting a foundation of faith that remained with her throughout her life. 

Kendra was a proud graduate of Everett High School, Class of 1990, and later attended Lansing Community College. She worked for many years in an office setting, until her health required her to step away. To those who knew her best, Kendra was so much more than what she did. 

She was a loving mother to her twins, Taylor and Amon, and her baby girl, Leea. Her children knew they could always find comfort with her, whether it meant crawling into bed on restless nights or talking until peace finally came. She listened, she laughed, and she loved in a way that made them feel safe. Her grandson, Kaison was her world. Kendra's personality was unforgettable. She was sassy, honest, and full of life. She loved deeply, spoke her mind, and was simply the life of the party. She had a good life.

In July 2024, Kendra faced one of the greatest battles of her life, a heart transplant. And she faced it the same way she faced everything, like a soldier. Strong. Determined. Unshaken. Though the journey wasn't easy, she showed strength every step of the way and for a time, thrived. Through it all, one thing never changed. Kendra was still Kendra, full of sass, strength and class. The woman her children were endlessly proud of. On March 21, 2026, Kendra transitioned from this life, leaving behind a love that time cannot be erased. 

She is preceded in death by her father, Henry Horton; grandparents, Ulee and Georgia Taylor; uncles, Ulee, Leon, Jesse, and Darren Taylor; aunts, Stella DeShazer and Willie Mae Hinton; and her cousins, Vonda Pruitt and Fredrick Taylor. 

She leaves her beloved children who will carry her spirit forward, Taylor, Amon & Leea; a grandson she adored, Kaison Henry Horton; her loving mother, Sherly Henton; sisters, Brandi Pettway, Heaven Henton; brother, Jacob Henton; nieces, Precious Horton and Tamia Williams; nephews, Eric Pettway, II, Elijiah Pettway; great-nieces and nephews; Partner in life, Marlon Williams; Goddaughter, Chyna Monet Gibbs; aunts, Bettye Gibbs (Ruddy), Willamena Clay, Teressia Abbas, Levon Mugashe, Mary Taylor and Sarah Horton. As well as many cousins, other relatives and friends.

She leaves a legacy that will live on in every story told, every laugh remembered, and every quiet moment when her voice is missed the most.