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Virginia Blanche Horn (“Ginger”), age 83, of Sturgis, passed away during the early evening on Saturday, April 12, 2025, surrounded by family.
She was born in New Jersey on May 15, 1941, the oldest daughter of the late Louis and Virginia (Gill) Taylor.
Ginger was raised in Clayton, New Jersey, and grew up working as a “soda jerk” and singing on local radio. She met her future husband, who preceded her in death, while riding horseback. They were married for 36 years. In 1976, Ginger moved with her family to Sturgis, where she resided the remainder of her life.
Ginger loved animals of all kinds, shapes and sizes. She was instrumental in forming the GinGeor line of collies, establishing one of the most well-known and successful dog show and breeding kennels in collie history. Dogs she bred and raised won the Collie Club of America national event on two occasions, in 1967 and 1976.
Ginger was a true community servant. She was honored as Sturgis Volunteer of the Year for her work with breast cancer survivors, volunteered at the Sturgis United Methodist Church, where she was a member and the Sturgis Garden Club. Ginger was also an unwavering patient advocate for those in assisted living.
Most important to her, Ginger raised three successful boys who have not only succeeded in their professional lives, but more importantly, in their personal lives as men, husbands and fathers. They and their families stand as living testaments of Ginger’s devotion to and love of family. She enjoyed playing cards, dominoes and spending time with her family. Ginger was a huge fan of submarine sandwiches, loved watching old movies, listening to popular music, and going to lunch with friends. She will also be remembered for her weekly phone calls to her entire family, this again was a testament to her love of family.
Ginger is survived by her sons George (Frances), Mark (Teresa) and Michael (Terri); six grandchildren Ryan Horn, Adam Horn, Katie Horn, Tyler (Brenda) Horn, Taylor (Sean) Hoey, and Mackenzie Horn; and her sister Charlotte (Russell) Pettit. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister Louise Bory.
Ginger left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her family will cherish their memory of her as a kind, loving and selfless individual.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no service.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name toward two of her passions, the local Hope for the Animals of St. Joseph County, 25420 Mintdale Road, Sturgis, MI 49091 and the Thurston Woods Activity Department, 307 N. Franks Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
