Sarah H. MacLaughlin, nee Horton, age 79, of O'Fallon, born May 8, 1934 in Atlanta, Ga., to James Leroy and Lucy Lee, nee Chapman, Horton died Friday, February 14, 2014 in her home surrounded by her loving family.

For the past 23 years, Sarah was as a counselor's assistant for educational talent search and worked for Higher Education Consortium of Metro-St Louis, in the college planning and placement office. "Momma Sarah," as she was lovingly called by family and friends alike, was known for her kind and generous spirit.

She volunteered her many talents in a variety of church ministries, committees and youth activities. She was a gifted seamstress, and shared her sewn creations in the form of afghans and wedding dresses. Sarah had a contagious smile and made those around her feel happy and loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Peter D. MacLaughlin, Sr., parents, and brother James Horton.

She is survived by her children Terri (Paul) Ahlvin, Peter "Kert" (Tammy) MacLaughlin, Jr., Susan MacLaughlin, Donna MacLaughlin, and Sheri (Michael) Engel; grandchildren Joseph (Elena) Ahlvin, Kristin (Patrick) Flor, Matthew (Rebecca) Ahlvin, Peter "Trey" MacLaughlin, III, Nathan MacLaughlin, Zachary, Taylor, Noah, and Caleb Engel; and dear friend Ron Dormer. Also surviving is her brother Gene R. Horton, and four great-grandchildren Elijah and Joshua Flor and Adyn and Isabelle Ahlvin.

Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, or to H.I.S. K.I.D.S., or the O'Fallon Community Food Pantry.

Visitation: Friends may call from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, February 16, 2014 at Faith Lutheran Church, O'Fallon, Ill. and again at 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2014 at the church.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 17, 2014 at the church with Rev. Bob Downs, officiating. Interment will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights.