James Eddie Houston awakened to life on September 29, 1948, and was released from this life February 28, 2014. He was third of five children born to Odessia and Herman Houston. James accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior later in life, and he now is at rest waiting for his Savior’s return. Preceding him in death was his son, James Eddie, Jr.; father, Herman; sisters, Jo Ann Houston and Judith Taylor; brothers, Elbert Houston, Kurtis Houston, Don Taylor, Roosevelt Taylor, John Taylor and James Taylor and step-father Willie Blunt. James was educated in the Memphis Public School System. At age 16, he moved to St. Louis, to live with his father and stepmother, JoAlma. He quickly made friends and they affectionately called him “Top Cat”. He was an employee for the City of St. Louis, and later for Missouri Department of Transportation, until becoming disabled. James was a caring, and loyal man. He devoted his time in assisting with the care giving of his step parents, whom he called Momma and Daddy. His favorite hobby was fishing, and he spent many hours enjoying this time with his father, brothers and fishing buddies. Often they would camp overnight and return the next day with fish to cook and share with his friends. He also enjoyed watching the STL Cardinals play while sitting in his favorite chair at home. James will be truly missed and he leaves to cherish his memory; his daughter, Robin Beard; mother, Odessia Blunt-Chicago; grandchildren, Tayvea, Briahna, Daija, Jameia, Ja’Raya, James Eddie III, and Tobias; seven sisters, Gladys (James), Valerie, Connie (Reggie), Laura (James)-Chicago, Ona Mae (Gene)-Chicago, Patricia-Chicago and Shela-Chicago; six brothers, Herman, Jr. Markeith (Jeannie), Gregory, Larry (Latrice)-Chicago, Judson (Ruby)-Chicago and Robert-Chicago; stepmother, JoAlma Houston-Lee; stepfather, Virgil Lee; daughter-in-law, Tunya Johnson-Houston; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

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