Charles Arthur Houston - dedicated husband, father, grandfather, sibling, and friend - passed away from natural causes in Douglasville, GA on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.

Charles was born to Leo and Lula Houston in Foreston on November 2, 1944. He attended the historical Wilson Elementary School and thereafter, graduated from Manning Training High School in 1963. Charles left his hometown of Manning, SC for the bright lights of New York City. Upon arrival in Brooklyn, NY, Charles worked for Valiant Metal Corp. as a sheet metal worker in Long Island City, N.Y. He answered the call of duty and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1965. While serving at Fort Gordon, Georgia, Charles sustained an injury that resulted in an Honorable Discharge in 1966. He returned to Brooklyn and met his wife, Diane. He continued his sheet metal work for Valiant and Tubular Textile until 1974. Thereafter he began his 30+ year career as an employee with the City of New York holding positions at NYC Technical College and NYC Transit Authority.

Charles and Diane married on September 16, 1967, and soon after welcomed their first child, Charles Jr. The couple had their hearts and arms open to receive their second child, Eric but God gave him his wings before they could. Strong, silent, and stern while loving, encouraging, and committed, Charles was the consummate Dad and was a paternal figure to many, some of whom are affectionately referred to as his special sons.

Through the years, Charles enjoyed singing, fixing cars, grilling, fishing, and spending time with his family. His stellar vocal ability earned him a spot as a member of a men’s quartet. However, his devotion and love for his family took precedence and he happily traded his mic for a fishing pole. Whether from the shore or the deep sea, Charles LOVED to fish.

Charles and Diane called the Red Hook area in Brooklyn home for almost 40 years. They retired and moved to Decatur, GA in 2004 to take advantage of every opportunity to spoil their one and only grandchild, Eva Corinne.

Being a grandpa came naturally to Charles. He would tell everyone he met about his “grand baby” and he tailored his schedule to assist in carpooling duties for her. Rain, sleet, snow, or shine, he picked Ms. Eva up before time!!

After the death of his wife, Diane in 2012, Charles sought companionship and the Lord brought his childhood classmate, Juanita Frazier Scott into his life. Through their 10-year relationship, Charles’ relationship with God grew strong and flourished.

Charles is survived by his son Charles Jr. (Monica); grand-daughter, Eva; special sons Shaun (Donna) Huntley and Stanley (Lakeisha) Hankins; special grandson Charles (LaShanta) Banks and great grand Jianna; his brother, Calvin, and sisters Rose Carr, Sarah Spencer, and Lula Mae Barrow; his uncle Bobby (Gloria) Simon; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends of which two were truly blessings to him Rhonda Houston and Laverne Houston (thanks for the many haircuts, house checks, special meals, and other ways you loved on him).

Charles was indeed a man of honor, and he valued people above all else. Thus, in honor of him the family has decided to establish “Houston House”, a shared living facility for retired veterans. In lieu of flowers you may contribute to the support of this effort. 

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