Carol Ann Houston

Carol Ann Houston, 88, of Sedalia, MO, peacefully passed away on Monday, October 21, 2024, at Golden Age Living Center in Stover, MO. Born on December 19, 1935, in Beaman, MO, she was the cherished daughter of Roy Pollard Wood and Bertha Gertrude (Fischer) Wood, both of whom preceded her in death.

On April 2, 1954, Carol united in marriage to her beloved husband, John Roy Houston, who remains at their home.

A proud graduate of Smithton High School in 1953, Carol furthered her education at Sedalia Business College. She met John while working as a waitress during the Mid-West State Fairs, a testament to her hardworking and vibrant spirit. Carol's professional journey included roles at the Prudential Life Insurance office and Town and Country Shoes, but her greatest joy came in her role as a devoted mother. She was the heart of her family, lovingly nurturing her four children, neighborhood kids, 4-H participants, and children from her church.

A dedicated member of Bethany Baptist Church in Sedalia, Carol's faith and community involvement were cornerstones of her life.

Carol's legacy lives on through her husband and their four children: Herbert Roy Houston (Susan), Lanny Brian Houston (Penny), Cynthia Rae Anderson (Paul), and Tracy Lynn Houston (Kristi), all of Smithton and Sedalia. She is also survived by her brother, Marvin Wood of Sedalia; eight grandchildren: Agusta, Leslie, Aaron, Kelsey, Joe, Alyssa, Kyle, and Brittany; thirteen great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her brother, Roy Wood.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Travis Battershell officiating. The family invites friends to join them for visitation one hour prior to the service.

Carol will be laid to rest at Salem Cemetery in Smithton, MO. Serving as pallbearers will be Joe Anderson, Aaron Houston, Kyle Houston, Kelsey Houston, Paul Owens, and Jeremy Renfro, with Doug Cribelar honored as an honorary bearer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Bethany Baptist Church or the Salem Cemetery Fund, care of Rea Funeral Chapel.