Houston Funeral Home

12/19/2025

Joyce Faye Blissard-Vance

Joyce Faye Blissard-Vance, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 18, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on February 27, 1936, in Houston, Mississippi, Joyce touched the lives of many through her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family.

A devoted homemaker, Joyce's heart was always centered around her loved ones. Her legacy will live on through her son, Dennis (Karon) Blissard, along with her cherished grandchildren: Chris (Barb) Blissard, Gary (Ashley) Blissard, Emily (Cory) Kusiak; step grandchildren, Greg (Grace) and Jason (Elizabeth) Lindsey as well as her great-grandchildren: Carson Blissard, Olivia Kusiak, and Blair Blissard; and her step great-grandchild, Brelyn Lindsey.

She took immense pride in her family and was deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Joyce's life was a testament to the power of compassion and the importance of family bonds. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit and the joy she brought to every gathering.

A public viewing will be held at Houston Funeral Home on December 20, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service celebrating Joyce's life at 1:00 PM with Dr. Randy Rinehart officiating. Burial will follow at Wesley Chapel Cemetery. Joyce Faye Blissard-Vance will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Maudie Pettit, her first husband and father of her children, Gerald Blissard, a son, Gary Blissard, and her second husband, Terry Vance.

View Joyce Faye Blissard-Vance's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/08/2025

Yours truly turned 50 years old earlier this week. Hurt my feelings a little bit. What hurt even worse was getting mail from AARP the week before my birthday. But I’m trying to stay positive about it. I’m thankful to still be upright, and I’m thankful for all the lessons I’ve learned and wisdom I’ve gained over half-a-century.

In fact, to commemorate this milestone, here are 50 bits of wisdom and lessons learned (and I often learned them the hard way). I hope you find this advice helpful.

1. Don’t be in such an all-fire hurry all the time. It’s usually not that urgent.

2. It’s OK to have conversations with your pets. Not weird at all.

3. Don’t go to sleep if you’re angry with someone. Instead, stay up all night plotting your revenge.

4. We all have our demons, but you don’t have to be scared of them. Make friends with them. And then when they least expect it, put them in a reverse sharpshooter until they pass out.

5. If you must run with scissors, make sure they’re the safety scissors you used in kindergarten.

6. There is absolutely nothing wrong with singing Tiffany’s “I Think We’re Alone Now” at the top of your lungs, no matter how much it embarrasses your children.

7. Don’t listen to anything Joe Rogan says.

8. Don’t let your kids win when you play them in checkers, or basketball, or Mario Kart, or whatever. Show no mercy. It’s the only way they’ll get good at something.

9. Take your meds. For your sake, but also for everyone else’s sake. We tire quickly of your nonsense.

10. If you want the job done right, hire a professional. You’re not Bob Vila, OK?

11. Find a friend who will keep your darkest secrets – unless you’re a serial killer. Probably should keep that one to yourself.

12. Be nice to your parents, because they have old photos of you naked in a bathtub.

13. Never make direct eye contact with Mark Zuckerberg, lest he abscond with your soul.

14. Every once in a while, stop and smell the roses. But watch out for the bees.

15. Always keep in mind that, if it wanted to, your cat could totally kill you in your sleep.

16. Never go for a run after eating Taco Bell.

17. Never eat Taco Bell.

18. Learn how to Google competently.

19. Turns out bears are NOT ticklish.

20. Learn proper grammar, otherwise nobody will take your manifesto seriously.

21. Watch out for weirdos at your local library. They’re the ones checking out Joel Osteen books.

22. Never make direct eye contact with Joel Osteen, lest he abscond with your soul.

23. It’s OK to give up on your dreams, because they’ve probably already given up on you.

24. Subscribe to the Daily Journal, otherwise I might write bad things about you.

25. When going on a first date, make the other person comfortable by assuring them you are definitely not a creep with multiple restraining orders against you.

26. If you carry around a clipboard and a pencil, you can gain access to just about anywhere.

27. Never trust a trust fund baby.

28. If Mormon missionaries come to your door, be a good hospitable Southerner and offer them a beer.

29. It is apparently frowned upon to show up at your ex’s wedding reception and bribe the band into playing “Yakety Sax” for the first dance.

30. Don’t wait for love to find you. Be proactive. Seek love. Stalk it. Send it anonymous, cryptic notes. Watch it while it sleeps. (If you’re a cop reading this, it’s all metaphorical, I swear.)

31. Don’t play fantasy football, unless you love being stressed out on a Sunday.

32. Go ahead, squeeze the Charmin. No one can stop you.

33. Save money by never paying your debts.

34. Find a cheap hobby, like knitting, gardening, throwing rocks at squirrels, or scrapbooking.

35. Never make direct eye contact with a squirrel, lest it abscond with your soul.

36. Crypto is a scam.

37. Get a tattoo. “But it’ll look awful when you’re old.” What, unlike the rest of your wrinkled, liver-spotted body?

38. The first rule of Twitter is this: Never tweet.

39. Also, don’t call it X, call it Twitter, because [REDACTED] Elon!

40. Speaking of Elon, do not buy one of his Cybertrucks, because people will point and laugh at you and possibly shoot you the bird. Not that I would ever do such things.

41. Don’t be ashamed to cry at that Amazon commercial with the old ladies sledding down the hill.

42. That said, [REDACTED] Jeff Bezos!

43. This holiday season, be kind to those who work in retail and the service industry. Many of them already have kids and don’t have time for your whining.

44. Undershirts are overrated.

45. Try to be more like Mr. Rogers. Failing that, try to be more like Mr. Bean.

46. Don’t run up the score on your opponents – unless it’s your kids. (See No. 8.)

47. Give peace a chance – unless someone puts raisins in their potato salad. That calls for extreme violence.

48. Every once in a while, take a few minutes to stare at the night sky to remind yourself that it ultimately doesn’t matter you’re a loser.

49. Never try to make a list of 50 things because man, that’s a lot.

50. Respect your elders. Our backs hurt and we’re tired.

Written By Brad Locke
(Daily Journal)

11/26/2025

We hope you all have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

11/11/2025

Thank you for you service!

10/20/2025

Peggy Ruth Pettit

Houston, MS-

Peggy Ruth Pettit, a cherished member of her community and beloved matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on April 23, 1938, in Mississippi, Peggy lived a full life marked by her devotion to her family and her unwavering faith.

Throughout her life, Peggy was a pillar of strength and compassion, known for her kindness and warm spirit. She dedicated herself to her family, nurturing and supporting each of them with her unconditional love. Her heart overflowed with love for her church and her deep faith in Jesus, which guided her in every aspect of her life.

A Funeral Service will be held in her honor on October 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM with Bro. Scott Samuel and Bro. Cody Childress officiating. Visitation will be from 12 PM until the time of service that day. Both services will take place at the local church where Peggy found solace and community, Pearson Chapel. Burial will follow at Wesley Chapel.

Peggy is survived by her beloved children, Jerry Pettit (Tammy) of Una, Linda McKell (Stewart) of Oxford, Mike Pettit of Houston and Sharon Stevens (Mark) of Houston, alongside her adoring grandchildren: Chris Hill (Ellen), Lance Pettit, Anna Emery (Ron), Shane Pettit, John Taylor Stevens (Jessy), Laken Smart (Caleb), Makenzie Smith (Daniel), Anna Ragen Coleman (Josh), Cyndell Linley, Mark Allen Stevens, Eric Smith (Kathi), Amanda Smith and her 15 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving sisters, Maxine McFall of Bently, Annette Morris of Anniston, AL, and Debbie Chandler of Vardaman, whose bonds enriched her life greatly.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband Vester 'Buck" Pettit and their infant child, Rita Faye, her parents, James Ardell and Mary Lou Dodson, and her siblings, Otis Dodson, Jimmy Dodson, Everiese Ruth, Sammy Dodson, James Dodson, Dolly Mae Allen, and Wonder White.

Peggy's legacy of love, faith, and dedication will endure in the memories of her family and friends. In this time of mourning, we invite those who knew and loved Peggy to gather and celebrate her life, remembering the joy she brought to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

10/11/2025

Bruce Haven Pepper

Houston, Ms-With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bruce Pepper, a beloved husband, father, Poppa and friend, who left this world peacefully at the age of 80 on October 10, 2025. Born on September 12, 1945, Bruce Haven Pepper lived a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories in Houston, Mississippi.

A Funeral Service will be held Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Pleasant Ridge Church with Bro. Johnny Wade Gaspard officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until time of service. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.

Bruce will be remembered for his warm spirit, unwavering kindness, and the joyful moments he shared with his family. He found tremendous happiness in the love he nurtured with his wife, Lana, by his side through the years. Together, they had a beautiful family that includes their six children: Jan (Heath) Hollingsworth, Gene (Brandy) Kimbrough, Craig (Kim) Pepper, Mike Pepper, Lori (Bill) Reifers, and Rhonda Coleman; thirteen grandchildren, Dustin (Madison) Smith, Andrew Pepper Jones, Mason (Amber) Gregory, Daniel (Makenzie) Smith, Amanda Gregory, Grace Gregory, Audreanna Heair, Caroline (Jayden) Reynolds, Lara Hollingsworth, Gracie Hollingsworth, Dillon Thompson, Montana Mathis, Micah (Marc) Eaton and many great-grandchildren. Each of them carries pieces of Bruce's heart and spirit, ensuring that his legacy of love will continue to flourish.

Bruce's love for his family extended beyond words; it was evident in his actions and the time he devoted to those he cherished. His ability to listen and provide support was a gift that many can attest to, and his laughter could light up the darkest of days.

Bruce's memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love that he shared so freely in his lifetime.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Grace Pepper and his brother Larry Pepper.

09/08/2025

Erma Jayne Harrison
August 8, 1945 - September 5, 2025

Jayne Harrison, age 80, passed from her earthly home, Friday, September 5, 2025, with her family at her side., Erma Jayne Davis was born in Houston, MS to Howard Milton and Erma Davis on August 8, 1945.

Jayne attended Parkway Baptist Church in Houston, MS. She worked as a secretary for the Chickasaw Development Foundation and the Houston School District. She was also a cook for Camp Tikawitha for Girl Scouts. She will be greatly missed.

A Funeral Service will be held Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parkway Baptist Church with Bro. Terry Rhodes and Dr. Randy Rinehart officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until time of service at the church. Burial will follow at Concord Cemetery. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the Harrison Family.

Jayne is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth and Amanda Harrison both of Houston, MS.

Jayne is preceded in death by her husband Edison A. Harrison; her brother, Milton R. Davis; and her parents, Howard M Davis and Erma R Davis.

Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall at www.houstonfuneralhomems.com.

08/30/2025

William Lee “Sonny” Scott

Houston, MS- William Lee “Sonny” Scott, Sr. earned his heavenly reward, after a lengthy battle with cancer, on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 at his home in Sparta, surrounded by loved ones.

Born William Lee Scott, Sept. 4, 1947, in Houston, Miss. to parents J.B. Scott, Jr. and Betty Maud Pumphrey Scott, Sonny was the oldest of two children, with his sister, Carolyn Sue Scott Puckett (Wade) of Wilson, Arkansas.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Houston Funeral Home at 2:00 PM with Bro. Melvin Aycock officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until time of service and he will be buried at Chickasaw Memorial Garden following the service. Houston Funeral home is honored to serve the Scott Family.

He married the love of his life, Icie Lee Eaton Scott, of Sparta, on Christmas Day 1967. The two never left any doubt of their love for one another. The pair had three children, William Lee “Hank” Scott, Jr. (Stacie) of Houston, Robert Harmon Scott (Beth) of Sparta and Joshua Floyd Scott (Maria) of Steens.

After working his way through college at Mississippi State University, Sonny spent years as a teacher, beginning at Woodland High School, before moving to Houlka Attendance Center where he retired. Retired life did not suit a man like him, however, and he began a career as an over-the-road truck driver for Franklin Corporation in Houston.

With the birth of his grandchildren, he decided to trade his truck keys for computer keys and began working in Logistics at Franklin. He eventually retired from there as well, in order to care for his aging parents.

A devoted son, Sonny was by both of his parents’ sides as they both took their final breaths.

His pursuit of knowledge was never satiated, and there was hardly a time when he didn’t have a book in hand. Many knew him for his dry wit and tongue-in-cheek humor, which often found its way into his monthly column, which he wrote for the local newspapers The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal and the Chickasaw Journal. It was a staple of both publications until he ended it in 2022.

Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, J.B. and Betty Maud Scott, his son, Joshua Floyd Scott, his brother in-law, Wade Puckett, grandparents Robert L. “Bobby” and Bettie Harmon, Eddie Lee and Cornelia Carter Pumphrey, William Jennings Bryan and Eula Lake Carpenter Scott.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Icie; his two sons, Will and Harmon; his sister, Sue; his grandchildren, Robert (Deanna), Carter, James, Josh, Lee and Brooke Scott, Taylor Stephens and Madison Traywick (Carson); nieces Kristine Puckett and Kate Broach (Aaron); a nephew, Nathan Puckett (Audre); a host of great nieces and nephews; an uncle, Kenny Scott (Georgia); and an immeasurable number of students and others whose lives he touched in his time on this Earth.

08/20/2025

A courtesy obituary for family and friends of Mabel Crawford:

Mabel Buckley Crawford, 94 of Jackson, Mississippi passed away on August 18, 2025. She was born on May 9, 1931, to Vera Mae Selman and Samuel Dewey Buckley. Mabel attended Jackson’s Central High School and Millsaps College. While at Millsaps, she met and married Robert Lee Crawford with whom she shared a beautiful life and three children.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 42 years Robert Lee Crawford; her parents Vera Mae Selman and Samuel Dewey Buckley; her brother Dr. Samuel Dewey Buckley, Jr.;

She is survived by her children, Claudia Crawford Gore (Ed) of Oxford, MS, John Edward Crawford (Beth) of Starkville, MS and Claire Crawford Frascogna (Greg) of Jackson, MS; her grandchildren Emily Fowler (Matt) Blake Gore (Lori) Rhett Gore (Elizabeth) Lou Frascogna (Molly) Caroline Crawford, Selman Gore (Frazier) Genny Phillips and Kendell Crawford and by 18 great grandchildren.

She was an active member of Houston First Methodist Church, Houston, Mississippi and First United Methodist Church, Tupelo, Mississippi before moving back to Jackson in 2019.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Houston First Methodist Church, Houston, Mississippi, Post Office Box 123, Houston, Mississippi, 38851.

A private graveside service will be held in Houston, Mississippi.

08/15/2025

Jimmy Earp

Houlka, MS- Jimmy Earp, age 72, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025, at North Mississippi Medical Center. He was born Jimmy Roger Earp on February 5, 1953, to John Sydney and Clara Ward Earp. Jimmy owned a barber shop in Houston, MS and enjoyed his work as a barber.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 10 at Houlka First Baptist Church in Houlka, MS, with Bro. David Blackwell and Bro Eddie Bean officiating. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be Monday, August 18, 2025 from 5-7 at Houlka First Baptist Church. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the Earp family.

Jerry Eaton, Trey Ellison, Buddy Moore, John Paul Cockell, Boo Griffin, Derrick Griffin and Shane Duncan will be serving as Pallbearers.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Earp of Houlka, MS; his daughter, Tawanna Earp of Houlka, MS; his son, Nick (Savannah) Earp of Houlka, MS; his sister, Ann (Eddie) Bean of Waynesboro, MS; his grandchildren, Garren Earp, Gavin (Mallori) Earp, Gage (Shay) Earp, Kaine Duncan, Deacon Duncan, and Oliver Stone; and his great-grandchildren, Elliette Joann "Ellie" Earp and John Nelson Earp.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, John Sydney Earp and Clara Ward Earp; his son, John Michael Earp; his sister’s Beatrice "Bea" Moss, Martha "Boots" Mooneyham, and Rose Margaret "Sis" Burgess; and his brothers, Thomas "Tom" Earp Sr., Ben Howard "Son" Earp, and John Sydney "Hick" Earp, Jr.

Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall at www.houstonfuneralhomems.com

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Houlka First Baptist Church in his honor.

08/12/2025

Rubye Kimbrough

Houston, MS- Rubye Kimbrough, Age 88, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born Rubye Doss to William Robert and Minnie Doss on January 8, 1937. Rubye was retired after working 31 years at Seminole in a management role. She is a faithful member of Macedonia Church.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Macedonia Church in Houston, MS, with Bro. Steve Lampkin officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:30 PM until the time of service. A burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery.

Rubye is survived by her husband of 71 years, Max (Sonny) Kimbrough, Jr of Houston, MS; her daughter Patti (Dean) Daniel of Houston, MS; her grand-children, Nick (Jamie) Weaver of Amory, MS, Kimberly (Norwood) Taylor of Houston, MS, Felicia Daniel of Oxford, MS and Christopher Daniel of Houston, MS; her great-grandchildren, Lauren (Taylor) Dowdy, Caleb (Millie Grace) Weaver and Luisa Weaver of Amory, MS, Kenslee and Cannon Taylor of Houston, MS; her great-great-grandchildren, Hudson and Charlee Dowdy of Amory, MS; and her sister, Janette Clemons of Columbus, MS.

Rubye was preceded in death by her parents, William Robert and Minnie Doss, her daughter and son in law, Debbie and Kenny Weaver, her son, Max Roger Kimbrough, III, her brothers, Murry Doss and Frank Doss and her sisters, Lounez Callahan and Dixie Norman.

Online condolences may be left on the
Tribute Wall at www.houstonfuneralhomems.com.

08/11/2025

This is a scam page! This is not real please report this page!!! Again NOT REAL. SCAM ALERT!!