Billy G. Houston

Billy G. Houston of Jonesboro passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at the age of 91.

Billy was born in Trumann on February 21, 1931, to the late Osa A. and Eva Vineyard Houston. He was a lifetime resident of Trumann until his move to Jonesboro in 2020. Billy graduated from Trumann High School and then enlisted in the US Air Force and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. After the war, he returned to Arkansas and enrolled in the University of Arkansas. A chance blind double date changed his life. Billy met the love of his life, Peggy Zachry, who had a date with Billy’s friend. There must have been an instant attraction because Billy transferred to Arkansas State University to be near Peggy. Billy graduated from ASU with a degree in agriculture. He and Peggy married September 24, 1955.

Billy worked for Metropolitan Life in Memphis, TN, before going out on his own where he had a business working with real estate and farm loans. Together he and Peggy raised their three children, worked hard, farmed his family land, and worshiped in their much loved church. Billy enjoyed working in his yard and woodworking out in his shop in the backyard. His woodworking resulted in some beautiful furniture and his gardening efforts were admired by many. He was a man of few words but was respected by those who knew him. Billy was an active member and elder in the First Presbyterian Church in both Trumann and Jonesboro.

Billy is survived by his wife of 66 years, Peggy Zachry Houston; daughter Carla Houston of Jonesboro; son Billy G. Houston, Jr., of Jonesboro; son John David Houston of Baton Rouge, LA; four grandchildren; four great grandchildren; sister Evelyn Wheatley of Fayetteville, TN; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank some special people who helped with Dad’s care. Dierkson Hospice, especially Tasha and Mindy, who provided gentle and loving care for our Dad and our special caregiver Patricia Kirkpatrick for all of the love and care that she provided to our Dad for the last 2 ½ years. Another special thank you goes to Dr. Lee Cranfill for his continued care and and support for our family.

Visitation will be from 9:30 - 11:00 am on Saturday, July 16, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church in Jonesboro. The memorial service will follow immediately with the Rev. Matt Bussell presiding.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to First Presbyterian Church, 710 Southwest Dr., Jonesboro, AR 72401.