Charlene Rae (Horn) Vorous
Charlene Rae Vorous passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, in Crozet, Virginia. She lived a long and fulfilling life of 89 years.
Charlene was a true California native. Born and raised in Piedmont, California, she attended Piedmont High School and graduated from San Jose State University, where she met her beloved husband, Don. They were married for 61 years.
Charlene was a devoted mother who dedicated herself to raising her three children. She was very active in their lives and their many sporting activities. She was a longtime member of AAUW of California and was very active in the Danville Garden Club, even opening her own beautiful Danville property for home tours.
Charlene began her career as an elementary school teacher. Later in life, she followed her passion for creativity and design, becoming an interior designer and proudly building and running her own business. She shared her talent and love of design with families throughout the Danville and Tri-Valley communities. She cherished the friendships she formed with her clients and took great pride in creating beautiful, welcoming spaces that reflected her creativity, warmth, and passion.
Charlene and Don loved to travel and explored faraway places throughout Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond. They especially enjoyed soaking up the sunshine and returned frequently to Hawaii and Cabo San Lucas. They also fell in love with the mountains of Lake Tahoe and Beaver Creek, Colorado, where they had second homes. Charlene was an avid skier well into her late 70s and also enjoyed snowshoeing and hiking.
Charlene was a loyal friend who continued to make new friends throughout her life. She loved entertaining and hosting parties beneath the grand oak trees in her beautiful Danville backyard. Her warmth, generosity, and zest for life brought people together and created lasting memories for her family and friends.
In late 2022, Charlene moved to the Charlottesville, Virginia, area to be closer to her daughter, Robyn, who lovingly cared for her during the final years of her life. She embraced her new home and community and was surrounded by family, friends, and those who cared for her.
Charlene was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald; her parents, Charles and Dorothy Horn; and her two brothers, George and Gerald Horn.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Brent and Stacey Vorous; her son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Darla Vorous; and her daughter and son-in-law, Robyn and John Mattern III. She is also survived by her seven adored grandchildren: Grant Vorous, Samantha Vorous, Ryan Vorous, Troy Vorous, Ashley Vorous, Reese Mattern, and John Mattern IV.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Seasons at the Lodge at Old Trail and Trinity Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and care they provided to Charlene and her family.
Share memories and condolences at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.
The family is being served by the Charlton and Groome Funeral Home, Fishersville, Virginia.
