Houston Elder

Houston McDonald Elder, age 95, a respected member of his community, beloved family man, and faithful servant of God, passed away surrounded by his family on May 15, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas. Born on August 12, 1928, in Seagraves, Texas, Houston was the second of six children to McDonald and Mary Ophelia Crocker Elder, growing up alongside his siblings Dwayne Alfred, Wendell, John, Ella Mae, and Mary Alice. Despite a challenging bout with scarlet fever at six, he grew up to be resilient, raising hogs, playing football, and excelling academically before graduating from Seagraves High School in 1946.

In 1948, life brought Doris Gressett into his world. Their first date, marked by a memorable sandstorm, led to a lifetime of love. They married on February 14, 1950, in Plainview, TX. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, building a life centered around faith, family, and community that would last 72 years.

Houston’s career with the United States Postal Service began in Seagraves at the age of 17 and led him to Crane in 1951, where the Elders’ family grew with the births of Susan Ann, Beverly Kay, and Houston McDonald Jr.

Houston and Doris became integral members of Crane’s community. Houston was not only known for his role as Assistant Postmaster but also for his unwavering service as a volunteer firefighter, a deacon, and a Sunday School teacher at the First Baptist Church of Crane. His tireless work on numerous church committees, his leadership in building projects, and his participation in mission trips underscored his commitment to serving both his community and God.

In 1977, Houston’s journey took a new turn when he and his family moved to Kermit, Texas, continuing his career with the USPS serving as the Supervisor of Postal Operations. Beyond his professional duties and numerous hobbies, Houston and Doris immersed themselves in the life of the Kermit First Baptist Church, contributing their time and talents to various church activities.

After retiring in 1983, Houston put his carpentry skills to use and over 8 years built his and Doris’s dream home in Fort Davis, Texas. Even in retirement, Houston remained active in the community. In the Davis Mountains Resort Baptist Church, he did everything from preach to janitorial duties, while also resuming his work as a volunteer fire fighter.

In 2007, Houston and Doris moved to Lubbock. They joined Calvary Baptist Church where Houston served as a deacon until 2012, when he felt it was time to turn it over to the younger men. However, he continued to enjoy his Tuesday morning coffee and always found an occasion to climb a ladder to do repairs around the church. In 2019 Houston had a minor stroke but fully recovered and was home in two weeks doing yard work. Unfortunately, Doris went to be with the Lord shortly after celebrating their 72nd wedding anniversary in 2022.

Houston has reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Doris, his parents, two sisters, and two brothers. A true Man of God, Houston leaves behind a legacy cherished by his brother John, daughters Susan Ann and Beverly Kay (Mike Pharaoh), son Houston Jr., five grandchildren, James Houston, Robert Wayne, Stefanie Michelle (Tye Graham), Karis D’Ann (Brandon Henry), and Rachel Renee, seven great-grandchildren, Ella, Kamber, JJ, Brasher, Sofia, Chase, and Michael, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch or Wounded Warriors, in Houston’s memory, continuing his lifelong commitment to service and community.

Houston McDonald Elder’s story does not end here; it lives on in the hearts of those he loved, the communities he served, and the profound impact he had on the countless lives he touched.

“God has kept His word. Your children, by no means perfect, have not departed from His ways. We sometimes stumble and even fall, but we fall on the foundation of God, that you have so diligently and responsibly helped build with your teaching but mostly by your example. Your children call you blessed. Thank you.” – Donny Elder

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Houston Elder, please visit our Tribute Store.