Elaine Moulton

Mary Elaine Moulton, known to family and friends as Elaine, age 80, of Avinger, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026. Elaine was born on November 26, 1945, to Franklin and Mary Smith.

Elaine lived a life filled with creativity, service, and a deep love for people and places. Her passion for travel led her to own and operate her own travel company, a career that allowed her to explore the world while helping others do the same. While living in California, she was an active member of the San Diego Chamber of Commerce, and in her later years she continued her civic involvement as a member of the Avinger Chamber of Commerce.

Elaine was deeply involved in her community and the arts. She was a proud supporter of the Cress Community Foundation and a member of the Marshall Art League. In her personal time, she found joy in art, oil painting, and gardening, pursuits that reflected her creative spirit and appreciation for beauty.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jim Moulton; her parents, Franklin and Mary Smith; her brothers, Tommy B. Smith and Jimmy C. Smith; her sister, Jeana Williams; and her grandson, Nicholas Mertens.

Elaine is survived by her sons, Brian Mertens and wife Stephanie, and John Mertens and wife Michele; her grandchildren, Shawn Mertens, Jacob Mertens, Andrew Mertens, James Mertens; her great-grandchildren, Kamden Mertens, Scarlet Mertens; and her siblings, Russell Smith, Rex Smith, John L. Smith, Betty Woodard, Terry Long, and Lita Brown.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., in the chapel of Horn Family Funeral Home.