Odie C. Houston

Mr. Odie Cole “O.C.” Houston, our beloved father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at his residence, with family by his side. He was 89 years old.

Odie was born March 9, 1936, to Ersular Jennings and John Henry Cole in DeKalb, Mississippi. He moved to Saginaw, Michigan, in 1956 and began working for General Motors. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, and solving crossword puzzles. After he retired from the Grey Iron foundry, he selflessly stepped into the role of family caretaker. He was a man of strength and integrity who took great pride in protecting and providing for his children and loved ones. Odie, who was affectionately known as “Daddy” to his children and grandchildren, will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Odie leaves to cherish his memory his children from his marriage to the late Ora Houston: Alma (Rickey) Clark, Eileen (Larry) Jackson, Willie (Elaine) Houston, James Houston, Lavonne Houston, and Tanya Houston. He is also survived by his sister Katherine Simmons, sister-in-law Levater Houston, and many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Odie was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Alma Hughes, Callie Johnson and Jennine Jennings; brothers, Leroy Houston, J.T. Houston, Eugene Houston, and Albert Jennings; granddaughter, Tangela Houston, and great granddaughter, Imani Houston.

The family would like to extend a special acknowledgement to Willie and Elaine for the loving and compassionate care they provided Daddy.

The family wishes to express special thanks to Pastor Hurley Coleman, Jr. and the World Outreach Campus Church, Pastor Johnie Edwards and the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Family and Friends.