James C Houston

The Life and Legacy of James Cyrus Houston “Jim” James C. Houston was born to the late Earl Cyrus Houston and the late Louise Golden Houston on August 27, 1935 in Washington, D.C. Jim was the third of eight children. He was affectionately called “Jim” by his wife and friends, “James” by his sisters and brothers, and “Opa” by his nine grandchildren. Jim graduated from Phelps Sr. High School. In 1955, Jim married Eldridgina Arlea Fisher. From this union were born his three children: Michael, Marla, and Michelle. After Michael was born, Jim was called to serve in the Army from November, 1958 to November, 1960, when he was honorably discharged. During his tour of duty, he was stationed in Germany. After he returned home, their family was increased by Marla and Michelle. Jim was a Boy Scout leader and enjoyed working with the boys and reminisced fondly of their hikes along the C&O Canal. Jim served in several Departments and positions throughout his thirty plus years in the Federal government. In 1975, Jim went to work as a computer programmer at the Internal Revenue Service. Around this time, Jim started his own company – Houston Tax Service, which continues to this day. He was very proud of his successful career as an entrepreneur and had many long-standing customers. On October 17, 1992, Jim married Jewel Yvonne Primas after a three-year courtship. Jim’s long-time friend, Charles Moore, was his best man. Jim and Jewel loved to travel together – from California to Mexico to Alaska to Barbados to Puerto Rico and all across the country. In 1998, they vacationed in Aruba and they both fell in love with the warm breezy island with its sandy beaches and beautiful, blue waters. Jim and Jewel returned there almost every year to celebrate their anniversary. Jim and Jewel also enjoyed meeting with friends and sharing their spiritual journeys. Jim leaves to cherish him his wife Jewel; one son: Michael (Pamela) Houston; two daughters: Marla (Robert) Houston and Michelle (Kevin) Collier: one stepdaughter: Yvonne (Raymond) Massenburg; 9 grandchildren: Michael A. Houston II; Erica P. Conway; Malik R. Staton; Jenelle M. Collier; Emmanuel I. F. H. N. Houston; Derrick R. Staton; Xavier D. Collier; Raymond D. Massenburg II; Malcom X. W. Massenburg; four sisters: Betty Hooker; Earlene Diggs; Jean (Jimmy) Uzzell; Carolyn ( ) Jenkins and one brother: Willie Houston and a host of nieces and nephews and other loving relatives and friends. He is predeceased by two brothers: Johnny and Leon Houston.

Tributes

James C Houston

August 27, 1935 - April 22, 2013