Tunnel Hill, GA - Mary Helen Hardin Horne, age 95, of Dalton, Georgia, passed peacefully at Quinton Memorial on September 4, 2025. Born on December 18, 1929, Mary lived a long and full life rooted in family, faith, and friendship.The daughter of Arizona and Sam Hardin, Mary grew up in a lively household as one of nine children. She cherished her siblings—Peggy, Earl (Elizabeth), Ralph (Lyda and Marguerite), Glenn (Nina Ruth), Chester (Inez), Frank (Trish), Virginia (Jack), and Betty (Troy)—all of whom preceded her in death, along with her beloved husband of 50 years, J.L. Horne. Though she outlived them, Mary carried their stories and laughter with her always.Mary was a devoted mother to her daughters Cynthia Cox (Tom) and Donna Cook (Jerry), and her love extended deeply into the next generations. She was a proud grandmother to Kelli Oliver (Alan), Amanda Douglas (David), and Hannah Talley (Jeff), and a joyful great-grandmother to Noa Paniagua, Jonah Paniagua, Lexi Douglas, Brayden Douglas, and Ty Talley. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who knew her as a source of warmth and steadiness, as well as dear friends, including Lyn Eakins, Deanie Garner, Gary Arnold, Fernando Paniagua, Teresa Sheram, Sharon Putnam and others who were like family. Her family would also like to thank the care givers at Quinton Memorial and Hamilton HospiceMary lived her life with energy, joy, and a deep love for people. She was a longtime member of Tunnel Hill First Baptist Church, where she took part in senior citizen and widows' outings that brought her fellowship and fun. She loved to dance and spent many years clogging with the Carpet City Cloggers. She also enjoyed simple pleasures, like visiting Motley's in Tunnel Hill, and grand ones, like traveling to the beach. Daytona was her favorite, but in truth, any shoreline brought her happiness.She was also well-known for her talents in the kitchen—especially her cakes and pies, which she shared generously with family, friends, and neighbors. More than just good food, these treats were an expression of her love and care.Mary's heart extended to animals as well; over the years, she lovingly cared for several pets that were dear companions in her life. She was also deeply patriotic and held a special admiration and respect for veterans, often expressing gratitude for their service and sacrifice.Family was always at the center of Mary's world. She made it a priority to keep traditions alive, gather loved ones together, and keep connections across time and generations strong. She carried people with her in her heart, whether near or far, and her wide circle of family and friends will remember her as someone who gave freely of herself and never stopped building bridges of love. Her legacy is not just in the family she raised but in the countless lives she touched with kindness, joy, and grace. Her home was always open, her advice always wise, and her laughter always a comfort.The family finds peace in knowing that Mary is reunited with her loved ones who went before her, and that her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who remain.The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM, at the Rocky Face Chapel of Julian Peeples Funeral Home with Rev. Tyson Griffin officiating and Kelli Oliver, Hannah Talley and Amanda Douglas giving eulogies.The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 1:00 PM until the funeral hour.Burial will be in West Hill Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society or Tunnel Hill First Baptist Church.