Memorial Trees
D
Diane Netherton
January 10, 2025
Memorial trees planted for:
Johnny Michael Houston
<p>John Michael Houston, 74, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on December 25, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with illness. John’s life was defined by his warmth, his love of family, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.<br></p><p>Born with an innate charm and a gregarious spirit, John had a gift for conversation. Whether speaking to an old friend or a stranger, he could find common ground with anyone, leaving them feeling heard and appreciated. His magnetic personality endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.<br></p><p>John was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves.<br></p><p>John was a passionate Clemson University football fan who wore orange with pride and cheered for the Tigers through every season. His love for Ford vehicles, NASCAR, sub sandwiches and a cold beer, and American and world history reflected his diverse interests and zest for life. He had a deep appreciation for movies and television, often weaving his favorite scenes into conversations with his characteristic humor and enthusiasm.<br></p><p>He was deeply devoted to his wife of 48 years, Brenda “Bunny” Edwards Houston, whom he cherished with unwavering loyalty and love. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and partnership.<br></p><p>A voracious reader, trivia expert, music enthusiast and an avid traveler. John found joy in visiting beachside settings with his family, savoring the serenity of the ocean and the memories created with loved ones. These trips were made even more special by the time spent with his wife, Bunny, and his brother- and sister-in-law, Jack and Patsy Mills. The group shared countless laughs as they taught Patsy to “ante, hold, or fold,” transforming a novice card player into a source of endless entertainment. Those Friday nights dining out and playing cards for pennies became treasured traditions that brought joy and a sense of camaraderie, moments filled with laughter and love.<br></p><p>John took immense pride in his daughter, Heather Houston Winebarger, and adored his granddaughters, Corley and Pressley, who affectionately called him "Papa." He was their doting grandfather, always ready with a story, a laugh, or a comforting presence.<br></p><p>John spoke with great pride when telling others about the many accomplishments of his younger brother K. Todd Houston, PhD.<br></p><p>John is survived by his devoted wife, Bunny; his daughter, Heather; his granddaughters, Corley and Pressley; his brother, Kevin Todd Houston; a nephew, Jordan Houston, and his nieces, Veronica Hinson, Brooke Cannon, and Kaitlyn Barnes. He is also mourned by extended family, countless colleagues, and loyal friends whose lives he touched in profound and lasting ways. He is preceded in death by his parents, John E. and Ruby Wages Houston, and a brother, Billy Keith Houston.<br></p><p>John’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and a genuine appreciation for life’s simple joys. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew and loved him. <br></p><p>In honor of John’s life, the family invites all who knew him to celebrate his memory by sharing a smile, striking up a conversation with someone new, or cheering a little louder for Clemson. John’s message to you would be “Enjoy Life!”<br></p><p>Rest in peace, John. Your light and laughter will be dearly missed but never forgotten.<br></p><p>A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Midway Baptist Church in Columbus, NC.<br></p><p> </p>September 13, 1950 - December 25, 202409/13/195012/25/2024
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