James T. Houts Jr.

James T. Houts Jr.houts, jim

1944-2016

James (Jim) Thayer Houts, Jr. passed away on October 10th, 2016. Jim was born in Memphis, TN on June 4, 1944 to James Sr. and Margaret Houts. Jim graduated from Whitehaven High School and Rhodes College. He enjoyed all sports, and played football in high school and college.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Donell; son Justin Houts; daughter Courtney Voight and husband Eric; stepson Cory Listen and wife Masey; brother Dr. Arthur Houts; nephew Aaron Houts and wife Susan; niece Margaret Donley and husband Josh; and six grandchildren, Franklin, Avery, Hallie, Griffin, Lainey, and Ellee.

Jim always enjoyed going to Memphis to visit his parents and brother, which gave him the opportunity to reflect on his most gratifying childhood. The majority of Jim’s business career was spent with Xerox Corp. While at Xerox, Jim had numerous sales and management positions and achieved Par Club and President’s Club many times. Jim enjoyed his annual trip to Maui, as well as numerous other travel destinations. Jim also enjoyed watching Justin participate in sports as a young child, watching Courtney at her dance recitals from age 6-22, and watching Cory playing high school sports all brought back good memories of Jim’s playing days. Jim was very proud of his children and would not hesitate to tell others about them.

In July of 1980, Jim was diagnosed with malignant lung cancer and had part of his left lung removed. For the next 36 years Jim lived life with thankful enthusiasm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, or a charity of your choice.

Memorial Services will be held 2:00 PM, Saturday, October 15th, at Matthews Funeral Home.

3 thoughts on “James T. Houts Jr.”

  1. I knew Jim through church. He was an honorable gentleman with the gift of making everyone he met a friend. I appreciated his good humor and his kindness. Respectfully, JJE

  2. JJ Endicott on October 14, 2016 at
    I knew Jim through church. He was an honorable gentleman with the gift of making everyone he met a friend. I appreciated his good humor and his kindness. Respectfully, JJE

  3. Clifford Lyle

    I had the honor and privilege of working with Jim throughout most of my career at Xerox. Jim was highly respected by his co-workers and customers. His ability to build relationships and get the hard deals done was legendary.
    He spoke often of his pride in his children’s successes and was always the optimist in business and life. I consider myself much richer having known him and he will be missed by many.
    To his family, I offer my sincere condolences on his untimely passing but take heart in knowing Jim was a true gentleman, always seeking the best for everyone.
    Best regards,
    Clifford Lyle

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