Michael L. Horton Jr.

May 19, 1976 – August 22, 2026

It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Michael “Mikey” L. Horton Jr., a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and cherished member of the Alexandria, Virginia community. Michael passed away on August 22, 2026, at the age of 50.

Born on May 19, 1976, Michael grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, where he became known for his extraordinary basketball talent and, even more importantly, for the personality that made him unforgettable. Michael was funny, charming, charismatic, and full of life. He had a natural ability to make people laugh, brighten a room, and leave a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Michael’s basketball career was remarkable. A member of the T.C. Williams High School Class of 1995, he graduated as the school’s all-time leading scorer, with more than 1,700 career points. During his senior year, he averaged an extraordinary 32 points, 9 assists, and 9 rebounds per game. He was named First-Team All-State in 1995 and was later inducted into the Alexandria City Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame.

His talent carried him to Allegany College of Maryland, where he was recognized as one of the nation’s top junior college point guards. He helped lead his team to an incredible 31-0 start before the national championship game.

Michael later continued his basketball career at the University of Cincinnati, playing under legendary coach Bob Huggins from 1997 to 1999. As a Bearcat, he was part of a team that reached No. 1 in the national preseason rankings.

But Michael’s greatest legacy was never found in a box score.

It was in his personality, his laughter, his charm, and the way he connected with people. He had a presence that was difficult to forget. Whether he was making someone laugh, telling a story, sharing a moment with family, or simply being himself, Michael had a way of making life feel a little brighter.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory his loyal wife, Stacey; his beloved children, Iliyah, Darian, Jessica, and Emily; his father, Michael Horton Sr.; his sister, Michelle Green (Glenn); and his nieces, Kiara Jenkins (Joseph III) and Jadyn Jackson; and a large, loving circle of extended family and friends. 

His family will forever carry the memories of his laughter, his love, his personality, and the countless moments that made him who he was.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Valerie Horton.

Michael’s life touched many people, from the basketball courts of Alexandria to the University of Cincinnati and beyond. His accomplishments made his community proud, but the people who loved him will remember something even more meaningful: the man who made them laugh, made them feel seen, and made an impression simply by being himself.

Though his time with us was far too short, his legacy will live on through his children, his family, his friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Michael “Mikey” Horton Jr. was deeply loved, truly unforgettable, and will be missed more than words can express.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever a part of us.