Wooster, OH – Deirdre “Dee” Hotton, age 62, passed away suddenly on January 6, 2026, in Wooster.
Dee was born on June 8, 1963, in New York, to Bruce and Geraldine (Kennon) Hotton. She was raised in Ohio and graduated from Ohio State University ATI in Wooster, where she began shaping a lifelong career devoted to animal care.
A dedicated and passionate horsewoman, Dee was the owner and operator of Dee Hotton Stables. She spent her life training and racing standardbred horses, a pursuit that was both her profession and her calling. Known for her knowledge, perseverance, and deep respect for the animals she worked with, Dee earned admiration throughout the racing community, with winners including Magnificent Mel, Lofty Chip, Hurricane Hugo, Glorybound, and numerous others.
She made her home in Wooster, where she lived with her two beloved cats. Dee valued her independence and found peace and purpose in the steady routines of stable life and the bonds she formed with her horses.
Dee is survived by her mother, Geraldine Hotton; and her siblings, Barbara Sharpless (Paul Sprunger), Bruce Hotton (Carolyn), Andrea Hotton, Colleen Rusnak (Randy), and Bridget Chylik (Brian) and her beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Bruce Hotton.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at noon at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 8240 Buffham Road, Lodi, Ohio 44254.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dee’s honor to an equine rescue organization or animal welfare charity of the donor’s choice.
Dee will be remembered for her dedication, her love of animals, and the lasting legacy she leaves within the standardbred racing community.
Online condolences may be shared at www.ParkerFuneralHomes.com.