William Robert Houghton

William “Bill” Robert Houghton, Sr.

William Robert Houghton, Sr., known to family and friends as Bill, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, soldier, and cherished friend. He passed away peacefully at home on Friday, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Bill was born in Chester, Pennsylvania and spent part of his life in Newton, Connecticut before settling in Martinez, Georgia with his beloved wife, Diane Houghton, and their two children.

Curious, intelligent, and warmhearted, Bill had a lifelong passion for science, animals, and learning. He enjoyed thoughtful conversations, lively storytelling, and discovering how the world worked. Generous with his time and knowledge, he was always willing to help when someone needed him.

Bill also loved working with his hands. He enjoyed woodworking and could fix nearly anything, taking pride in solving problems and creating something useful or beautiful. His humor, wide-ranging interests, and practical talents made him a memorable presence to everyone who knew him.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Bethany College and pursued extensive scientific, military, medical, and professional training throughout his life.

Scouting was also an important part of Bill’s life. As a Boy Scout, he achieved the rank of Life Scout, an accomplishment that reflected his determination, character, and commitment to service. Later in life, he returned to Scouting as a troop leader, giving his time, knowledge, and encouragement to younger Scouts.

Bill was especially proud of his service in the United States Army. Trained in both medical services and logistics, he served his country with dedication and ultimately retired with the rank of Major. His military career reflected his compassion, leadership, resourcefulness, and commitment to others.

Bill was a gifted teacher who loved sharing what he knew and encouraging others to learn. Although he never pursued a professorship, his family knew he would have made a wonderful professor. His love of learning, natural curiosity, and ability to explain and share knowledge were simply part of who he was. He also worked at the Savannah River Site, where he drew on his scientific background, military experience, and problem-solving abilities.

Although Bill accomplished much professionally, his greatest joys were found in his family. He shared a loving life with Diane, his wife and the love of his life. Together, they built a home filled with companionship, laughter, adventure, and treasured memories.

He was a devoted father to his son, William “Bobby” Robert Houghton Jr., and his daughter, Shannon Houghton Duke. He welcomed his son-in-law, James “Hank” Duke, as a beloved member of the family.

His grandson, James Houghton Duke, brought him immeasurable pride and happiness. Bill cherished being his grandfather and treasured the time they shared.

Bill is also survived by his brother, Jim Houghton; sisters-in-law, Frances Houghton, Cindy Powell, Jean Roberts, and Jeanne Anderson; brothers-in-law, Larry Powell, Earl Roberts, Danny Anderson; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Houghton and Aimee’ Houghton; his sister, Betty Kiraly, brother-in-law, David Kiraly; father-in-law, Daniel Anderson; mother-in-law, Helen Anderson; and sister-in-law, Terry Lynn Anderson.

Bill’s legacy lives on in the people he loved, the knowledge he shared, the problems he solved, and the memories he created. He will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a proud soldier, a gifted teacher, a skilled craftsman, a loyal friend, and a man who approached life with curiosity, humor, and compassion.

His presence will be deeply missed, but his love, stories, laughter, and lessons will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Pastor Barry Clanton will officiate graveside funeral services, with military honors, on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 10:30 am at Bellevue Memorial Gardens 4501 Wrightsboro Rd. Grovetown, Georgia 30813.

Pallbearers will be Mike Kitchings, Preston Kitchings, Mercer Thompson, Charlie Weaver, AJ Kiraly, and Marc Abeles.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill’s honor to Bethany College in West Virginia: https://www.bethanywv.edu/give/ 

A life well lived, a heart generously given, and a man deeply loved will never be forgotten.