It was an afternoon of memories, accolades and congratulations Wednesday as Judge Marilyn Horan's move from common pleas court at the county government center to federal court in Pittsburgh was celebrated.

More than 300 people attended a farewell reception for Horan at 1:30 p.m. in Courtroom One, where she was sworn in as an attorney 39 years ago.

Horan has served as a common pleas judge for 22 years.

Placed on the lofty bench with Horan in the courtroom was state Supreme Court Judge Debra Todd, who has known Horan for 20 years. Horan's fellow Butler County Common Pleas Court judges sat in front of the bench, facing a courtroom packed with attorneys, county employees and Horan's friends.

“This is such a tremendous honor for you personally and for Butler County,” Todd said of Horan's status as the first judge from Butler County to be appointed to federal court. “That's no small accomplishment.”

Todd, a Butler County resident, told Horan that there is one downside to earning a spot on the federal bench in Pittsburgh.

“I welcome you to the legion of commuters to downtown Pittsburgh,” Todd said. “Let's make it at least another 22 years.”

Each of Horan's fellow judges said a few words about the co-worker they respect and admire.

Judge Kelley Streib talked of meeting a woman in Cranberry Township who had to take her two young daughters to court for a proceeding. The nervous trio appeared before Horan, who quickly focused on the girls in an effort to make them feel more comfortable in the official environment.

“Because of your kindness, they were able to get through one of the toughest days of their lives more easily,” Streib said.

She wished Horan the best on the federal bench.

“Your legacy is written in the hearts of the people you served,” Streib said. “I thank you for being an example of what a woman judge can and should be.”

Judge William Shaffer said the two began their careers as attorneys at about the same time. Shaffer was elected as a judge two years after Horan took the bench.

“We've served together for almost 20 years, and you've always been there when I've needed advice,” Shaffer said. “If I need any help, I'll call.”

Attorney Tom Breth, who is the president of the Butler County Bar Association, read a lengthy proclamation that listed Horan's qualities and programs she instituted during her 20 years as a county judge.

County Commissioners Chairman Leslie Osche also congratulated Horan.

“On behalf of the board of commissioners and citizens, I am so honored and blessed to express our pride in Judge Horan, the first federal judge from Butler County,” Osche said. “May her integrity and grace guide her every word and action.”

Osche presented Horan with a bouquet of roses and a certificate reflecting her remarks.

After all the accolades, Horan said she was humbled when it came time for her comments from the bench.

“I see this as an opportunity to tell all of you how much you mean to me,” Horan said.

The Butler native said although she is branching out to federal court in the big city to the south, her roots will never waver.

“Butler is and always will be my home,” Horan said. “Growing up, a question often asked was 'Are you a Butler girl?' And I tell you today, I am proud to be a Butler girl.”

She shared her deep feelings for the attorneys who were her former partners at Murrin Taylor and Gallagher, where she served as a young attorney and eventual partner before leaving the practice to serve as a judge in common pleas court.

“Leaving the practice was a very, very difficult decision,” Horan said. “I never aspired to judicial service. It sort of chased me.”

One part of Horan's comments caused her to choke up just a little, and that was the memory of her decision to hire Ione Mathias as her administrative assistant when she was elected to the judgeship.

“She's been a great co-worker and trusted friend,” Horan said. “It's been great working with you Ione. I'll miss you tremendously.”

She also thanked her law clerks over the years, and made special mention of her husband, Joe Caparosa, with whom she has four grown children.

“He's one amazing guy, husband and father,” Horan said. “You're the love of my life.”

Horan said 39 years in the legal field in Butler County “have passed in a blink,” and she asked all in attendance for continued prayers and support as she embarks on her new job next week.

“Take care of our court and take care of our community,” she said.

After the ceremony, her supporters waited in a receiving line to share their congratulations with Horan. The bar association also hosted a reception in Keister Commons on the third floor.

“She made us all be better lawyers,” said attorney Ray Conlon. “You could not go in front of Judge Horan unless you were prepared. And if you weren't, you heard about it.”

Conlon was not surprised that Horan was tapped for federal court.

“She always ran her courtroom like a federal courtroom,” he said.

Judge Martin O'Brien, who retired in 2005 as senior judge at county court, made it a point to attend Horan's send-off.

“She's been a wonderful judge for the county and I don't think she'll change her approach or methods at federal court,” O'Brien said.

He has also enjoyed being Horan's neighbor for many years.

“She's a fine person, a good friend and a great neighbor,” O'Brien said. “She walks her dog every day, and I like to stop her and say 'hello.'”

O'Brien wishes Horan the best in her new career, where he is sure she will excel.

“Federal court has gained a great judge,” he said.

Mike Gallagher, who was Horan's partner and has appeared in her court numerous times since he became an attorney in 1990, said Horan respected everybody she met.

“Even on your worst day,” Gallagher said.

He feels Horan was the best choice for federal court.

“It's going to be a loss for Butler County,” Gallagher said. “I really enjoyed appearing in front of her.”

Justice Todd said she attended the celebration on Wednesday to wish Horan well on behalf of the state Supreme Court.

“She has a tremendous statewide reputation,” Todd said. “She's an outstanding judge, fair, patient and kind, and she exhibits not only a legal ability but common sense, so that will serve her well in federal court.”

Horan's first day on the federal bench is Tuesday.