“She was a dynamo,” explains Elaine Tennyson, a businesswoman, entrepreneur, close friend and mentor. “She modelled in fashion shows, was a performer, a dancer at concerts, in videos, and films – she did all of that,” Tennyson reminisces. “But most importantly, she was beautiful inside and out.”

One of Horton’s most dramatic and high profile appearances occurred in 1993, at the M.A.C Viva Glam Fashion Cares gala fashion show held at BCE place. In order to wear a Hoax Couture black and white striped gown measuring approximately twelve feet, she  balanced on the shoulders of a male acrobat, skillfully managing to stay elevated while he carefully held her legs and walked across the stage, to massive applause. It became an iconic moment in the show’s history. In 2006, for the 20th Anniversary held at the Metro Convention Centre, she reprised the performance with her cousin Dwayne Howard.

In her work across various creative endeavors, Horton carried herself with poise and grace. In an industry largely based on who you are and who you know, racism can hinder an aspiring star’s career. Horton however, did not let ignorance impact who she was, or how she treated others.

Tennyson, who often attended functions and events with Horton, stressed the importance of attitude. “She could sit in a room and be the only Black person and it wouldn’t matter,” she says. “She kept her head held high, and opened her arms and her heart to everyone.” Horton’s magnetism and character often transcended issues of race and ignorance. Her talent and charisma were just some of the attributes that won people over. “That’s how Suzi was, people were drawn to her, people looked beyond race with Suzi,” Tennyson explains.