James Edgar Houston

James Houston, 77, of Palestine, IL, died August 15, 2021, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born June 9, 1944, in Pulaski, VA, the son of G.C. "Joe" & Gladys (Cury) Houston, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his son, James Edgar Houston, Jr.; by his brother, Joe; and by his sister, Ethel. He married Gerrie Downs on January 3, 1970, and she survives. He is also survived by his daughter & son-in-law, Brenda & Robert Littlejohn, Jr. (Palestine, IL); by his grandchildren, Haylea Stephens (Robinson, IL), Tim Pointon (Palestine, IL), Eric Pointon & fiancée Taylor Guyer (Lake Jackson, TX), Brooke & husband Bon Shipman (Robinson, IL); by his great-grandchildren, Kinslea Shipman (Robinson, IL) and Lennox Pointon (Lake Jackson, TX); by his sister, Ruby Curtis (Paris, TN); as well as several nieces and nephews. Jimmy grew up in Tennessee before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Back home, he eventually found work with Ironworkers Local #395 in Hammond, IN. Over the course of his career, he saved a number of his peers from near-fatal accidents, and in doing so, earned the nickname "Angel". By the time he retired at the age of 59, he had made many dear friends, which comes as no surprise to anyone blessed enough to know him. After all, he was a genuinely kind and friendly man whose wonderful sense of humor could light up any situation. Much of his free time was spent tinkering. Jimmy epitomized the phrase "jack of all trades, master of none", as he worked with wood, metal, concrete, you name it! In short, he wasn't one to keep still and made sure his life was a productive one. That isn't to say that he didn't know how to kick back and relax! He found great peace in the outdoors and was especially drawn to fishing. He enjoyed the thrill of gambling and would frequent the casino regularly. An avid dancer, he and Gerrie were known to tear up the floor at their local Moose Lodge, where Jimmy also showed off his skills at the pool table. Back home, he found great satisfaction whipping up delicious dishes in his kitchen, especially his famous biscuits & gravy, which have yet to be rivaled. In the twilight years of his life, he found a sense of fulfillment in mowing his yard. It wasn't uncommon to see him riding his mower with his beloved dog, Houston, on his lap. It has been said that a man is a "success" who lived well, laughed often, and gave much. Who gained the respect of others and the love of children. Who filled his destiny and accomplished his tasks. Who never lacked appreciation in others or failed to express it. Who looked for the best in others and gave the best that he had. If these are the measures of success, it is evident that Jimmy Houston lived an extraordinary life. It was his wish to be cremated, and his family will conduct a memorial service at a later date. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of cremation arrangements. Memorials may be made to the "V.F.W. Transportation Fund" and may be mailed to:                           Goodwine Funeral Homes                                    303 E Main St                                 Robinson, IL 62454