Lillian Elaina Houston's Obituary
Lillian Elaina Houston was born on November 23, 1940, in Stonehenge, St. James, Jamaica, West Indies, to the late Theodore and Christiana Stevens. She was the eighth of ten children-two boys, Wolsey (Uncle Rob) and Austin, and the youngest of eight daughters: Arnetta (Netta), Francis (Ruby), Gwendolyn (Tatty), Gertrude (Manda), Victoria (Vic), Urceline (Lynn), and Ethlyn (Gela).
Lillian received her early education at Orange Hill Primary School in Stonehenge. She studied diligently, often by the light of a glass lamp inscribed with "Home Sweet Home," persevering through long nights with little more than determination and the occasional splash of cold water to fight off sleep. Her dedication led to success in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year local examinations, which became the springboard for her future. She went on to attend Bethlehem Teachers' College in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica.
Even while pursuing her education, Lillian opened her heart to others. She lovingly cared for her niece, Maxine Rose, from the age of three, raising her as her own child. After graduating, she began her teaching career, serving in schools across various districts. Ambitious and forward-looking, she moved to Kingston in pursuit of broader opportunities before eventually migrating to the United States to continue
her education and build a new life.
In the U.S., while working as a babysitter and taking on odd jobs to fund her studies, she met and married her beloved husband, Lester Leroy Houston Sr. (who predeceased her). Together they welcomed a son, Mark Houston. Around that time, Maxine, then 12 years old, joined the family in America. From then on, Maxine
became not only a daughter in every sense but also a lifelong companion who stood faithfully by Lillian's side. As Scripture reminds us in Revelation 2:10, "Be thou faithful unto death"- a devotion Maxine fulfilled completely.
Professionally, Lillian built a career as a Medical Laboratory Technician and later as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. Beyond her work, she found joy in the outdoors, gardening, traveling, and reading. Her life was one of strength, faith, perseverance, and generosity, leaving an indelible impact on all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester Leroy Houston Sr .; her stepsons, Michael and Billy Houston; six of her sisters; and her two brothers.
Lillian quietly departed this life on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Fort Myers, Florida. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted son, Mark; her beloved daughter, Maxine; her stepson Lester and his wife Sharon, her loving sister, Ethlyn McCalla-the last of the Stevens siblings; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Rest in peace, Lillian.
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