Cleopatra Durr (Horton) was born on December 18, 1933, in Glen Jean, West Virginia, to Eugene and Cleo Tolbert. She was also the big sister to two brothers, Gerald and Howard. After losing her parents at an early age, Cleopatra was raised by her step-Grandmother.
Cleopatra graduated from Stratton High School, in Beckley, West Virginia. As a high school student, she enjoyed various activities such as drama, home economics, and Girl Scouts. After High School, she provided childcare for several years. She always wanted to see the world and over a span of 10 years, her travels had her living in Cincinnati, Ohio and Detroit, Michigan. She held a variety of jobs, working as a waitress, a hotel clerk for the Holiday Inn and making toys at the Mary Mac Toy Company.
After residing in Cincinnati and Detroit, Cleopatra lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. She had married, and the couple adopted their son, Duane Durr. She was proud being the first African American to work in the St. Anthony Catholic Hospital in Colorado Springs. She also worked with prominent families and met ice skater, Peggy Fleming and the Thirty-Fifth President of the United States, John F. Kennedy.
In 1969, the Durr family moved to Columbus, Ohio. Cleopatra became first lady of Asbury North United Methodist Church when her husband was appointed pastor. Their marriage dissolved after his tenure with Asbury and the couple separated amicably. Cleopatra worked for and retired from the Shoe Corporation of America and MI Square Electronics.
In 1984, Cleopatra married Robert Horton. They both were long standing members of Asbury and were known throughout the congregation as the “Colorful Pair”. They both enjoyed being part of Nurture Care, Usher Board, Chancel Choir, and Greeters. After Robert’s passing in 2010, Cleopatra continued her service with Asbury, assisting and greeting everyone with her warm, beautiful, and spiritual smile.
Cleopatra was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, and her special cousin, Virginia Alston.
She leaves to cherish her memory, son, Duane Durr; sister-in-law, Tracy Horton; little sister, Jacquelynne Johnson; adopted daughter, Shelia D. Smith; Goddaughter, Bonita (Luther) Hutchinson; Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.
Private service Visitation 1:00 PM and Funeral Service 2:00 PM Saturday, May 23, 2020 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave.
A mask is mandatory for service.
I know your dancing in heaven now, but we sure miss you down here.
So very sorry to hear of the loss of one beautiful soul. She was such a kind spirit and sweetheart to all. I loved to watch her dance every week at The Sunday Blues Jam Sessions. No doubt she is a greater at Heavens Gate now. Rest in eternal peace Ms. Cleo. until we meet again.❤ . Peace & Blessings to the family
To the family of Mrs. Cleopatra, she is with our Lord and Saviour, comfort to you all.
My deepest condolences to the family. Cleopatra and I worked together many, many years ago (if I recall, at the electronics company). I recall her as a very nice woman.
To Dwayne and the Durr Horton family, our hearts are broken like yours by the passing of our sister Cleopatra. She was fun, faithful and loving in thought words and deeds. We will miss her so much, our prayers have been answered for the final healing she’s at peace. God bless you all.
Small and mighty. Dancing in heaven. Sure will be missed. Thank you for all your support and kind words.
The world has lost a great woman, but absent from the Earth is present with God. He will take good care of you. No more sorrow, suffering or pain. You are at home with the Creator now. I will always love and miss you, my beautiful Mother-in-law, I will cherish the memories of you and the good talks we had. Rest well and dance with the Angels until we meet again.
To Dwayne and the Durr Horton family, our hearts are broken yours st the passing of our sister Cleopatra. She was fun, faithful and loving in thought words and deeds. We will miss her so much, but our prayers have been answered, she’s at peace. God bless you all.