Heidi R. Horne, 57, of Manchester, NH, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday January 18, 2023, at her home. She was born on July 17, 1965 in Exeter, NH, a daughter of the late Glenn Horne and Linda (Purington) Horne.
Growing up on Beaver Lake in Derry, NH with her parents and two sisters, Heidi was a beautiful fixture in her float, enjoying the sun and gentle waves from the passing boats. A lover of all animals, with a kind and compassionate heart, she always managed to find the random stray kitten to bring home while on her treks around the lake.
The sisters would often get up to shenanigans with their pack of friends in the neighborhood. Heidi, always the protector, would often look out for her younger sister throughout the years. With Heidi’s off-beat sense of humor, she often caused giggle fits to break out with her sisters at the oddest of times.
Running into the grocery store for a few quick items, Heidi could often be found chatting with strangers, getting their life story in a matter of minutes. If someone felt uncomfortable at a party, she was there to make them feel at home. Her compassion for others was apparent by the generosity shown toward those who had less than she did.
Heidi’s first job was at 15 years of age, cooking for the elderly residents of the Beaver Lake Lodge. She also worked at Denny’s in Salem, Hadco in Derry, and a variety of restaurants in Manchester, but most recently at Fisher Cat Stadium and the SNHU Arena, both in Manchester.
Heidi would often speak of her three sons, of whom she was extremely proud, as well as her daughter-in-law and the shining light in her life, her beautiful grandson, Abraham. Being a grandmother brought such joy to Heidi and she cherished every moment she got to spend with her grandson.
This past Christmas was a very special occasion for Heidi. She and her love, Patrick, got to host her family in their new home, which Heidi took great pride in. From watching Abraham opening his gifts to his toddler-play with their beloved cats, Bean and Keek, Heidi’s heart was full of contentment. Always an amazing chef, Heidi put on a fabulous feast and got to relax and just enjoy the company of her loved ones. This special moment will live on in the hearts of her boys as they grieve the loss of their mother but rejoice in knowing how happy she was to simply be with them.
She is survived by three sons, Colby Ball and his wife Tabitha, Colin Ball, and Cameron Ball; one grandchild, Abraham; her longtime companion, Patrick Kelley; two sisters, Gretchen Meisner and her husband Kurt, and Holly Tate and her husband Jeffrey; two brothers, Glenn Horne and Ryan Horne, many nieces, nephews and extended family as well as her two beloved cats, Beans and Keek.
Calling hours were held on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 from 4 – 6pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry. Funeral services followed at 6pm in the funeral home with cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of NH, 545 State Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110.
In memory of Heidi, everyone is invited to wear pink, Heidi's favorite color.