Houston Funeral Home

02/24/2026

John Michael Harmon

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of John Michael Harmon on February 21, 2026. Born on August 10, 1954, Mike captured the hearts of many with his spirit, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends. Though nothing prepares a family for such a loss, we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace.

A funeral service will be held Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Bro. David Blackwell officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until time of service at Houston Funeral Home. Skip Winter, David Huffman and Mike's grandsons will be serving as pallbearers. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.

Mike was a man defined by strength, independence, and love. He found joy in the bountiful nature that surrounded him; an avid outdoorsman, he relished the thrill of deer hunting and embraced the simple beauty of spending time outside. Fall Saturdays were sacred, dedicated to Ole Miss football, where he cheered passionately for his team. Few things brought him more happiness than the wind in his face as he rode his beloved Harley, and spending time with his faithful dog, Bandit, who remained by his side through thick and thin.

His most profound love, however, was reserved for his family. Mike was fiercely protective of his daughters, Karen (Joseph) Atherton and Andrea (Brian) Adams, and he took immense pride in his cherished grandchildren: Logan (Kenna) Winstead, Drew Winstead, Bennon Adams, Adalyn Adams, Haze Atherton, and Kayden Atherton. He also welcomed the joy of being a great-grandfather to Ivy Rose Thornton. Each of them was bathed in his love and affection, which often came with quieter lessons of strength through both example and gentle reminders to work hard and persevere.

The world knew him as a tough yet loving man, sometimes hard-headed, but those who loved him understood that such qualities stemmed from an immeasurable depth of care. John worked tirelessly throughout his life, providing for his family even when he no longer had to. He taught his loved ones invaluable lessons about life, instilling virtues of resilience and the importance of being the best they could be. Memories abound of hunting trips, spirited discussions about football, and the simple joys of picking up sticks in the yard, moments that encapsulated his philosophy of tough love.

Though his life was not without challenges, he faced each obstacle with determination, embodying the true spirit of tenacity. He fought the good fight and leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and an enduring love that will forever resonate in the hearts of his family and friends.

Mike is survived by his loving daughters, cherished grandchildren, a great-grandchild, along with his siblings Susan (Billy) Fuller and Terry Harmon, and special friends Mary (Mary Dale) Stark and Lisa (Liza Jane) Wilson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilburn and Bobbye Sue Harmon, his brother, Tony Harmon, and his best friend, Johnny Huffman.

As we celebrate the incredible life Mike lived, we remember the countless ways he brightened our days and deeply touched our lives. His memory will live on in every shared story, in laughter, and in the lessons, we pass on to future generations. May he now rest in peace, reunited with those who have gone before him, until we meet again.

View John Michael Harmon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/09/2026

Buster Robertson

Wilford Hartel Robertson, affectionately known to all as "Buster" passed away peacefully at his home, February 8, 2026, in Chickasaw County, surrounded by the comfort of the life he so faithfully lived.

A funeral service will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church at 1:00 PM with Bro. Sammy McMillan, Bro. Henry Robertson, and Dr. Randy Rinehart officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until service time. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery.

Henry Robertson, Mike Robertson, Randy Robertson, Will Robertson, John Robertson and Mitch Caples will be serving as pallbearers. Danny Lantrip and Gary McQuary will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

Buster was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was his loved ones. He shared more than 50 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ladys, building a life rooted in love, faith, and commitment. Together they raised five sons, and Buster took great pride in being a dedicated and loving father, guiding his boys by example, hard work, and unwavering values.

Buster proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, with service in Taiwan and Japan an E2. His military service was a source of deep pride, and he carried the discipline, integrity, and patriotism learned there throughout his life.

Following his service, Buster dedicated many years to Natchez Trace Power, where he worked his way to crew foreman. He was proud of the work he did and was respected for his leadership, strong work ethic, and dependability.

A faithful member of Bethel Baptist church, Buster loved the Lord and found joy in serving both his church and his God. His faith was evident in the way he lived—humble, generous, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

In his younger years, Buster enjoyed horseback riding and leatherworking, hobbies that reflected his love for craftsmanship, the outdoors, and a simpler way of life. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Buster is survived by his sons, Randy (Fran) Robertson of Brandon, MS, Mike Robertson of Houston, MS, Marty Robertson of New Orleans, LA, Henry (Mary) Robertson of Houston, MS and Bryan (Michelle) Robertson of Houston, MS; his grandchildren, Will Robertson, John Robertson, Morgan Robertson, Sarah Robertson, Anna Beth Robertson, Andrew Robertson, Devon Robertson and Ainsley Robertson; and his sisters, Lounez Straight and Katheryn (Mac) Towery of Tupelo, MS.

Buster was preceded in death by his wife, Ladys Robertson, his parents, Henry and Inez Robertson and his brother, Johnny Frank Robertson.

Buster will be remembered as a man of faith, service, and love—a devoted husband, a proud father, a loyal friend, and a servant of God. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply

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01/22/2026

Rose Ellen Haire

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rose Ellen Haire, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, and mother, who departed this life on January 21, 2026, at the age of 85. Rose was born on August 3, 1940, Chickasaw county, Mississippi, and she made her home in Houston, MS, where she lived her life surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Rose loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Faith Bible Church.

Rose dedicated a significant part of her career as a secretary at the Shannon Chair and Franklin Corporation, where her meticulous attention to detail and warm demeanor left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of working with her. She was a steadfast employee, known for her unwavering commitment and dedication.

Beyond her professional life, Rose had a radiant spirit that filled her home with warmth and creativity. She had a special gift for crocheting, often making beautiful baby blankets for new additions to the family. Her artistic talents extended to cross-stitching and coloring, activities she cherished during her leisure time. Rose was also a fan of game shows, finding joy in the simple pleasure of watching her favorites on television.

In her earlier years, she delighted in square dancing and exhibited impressive skills on roller skates that showcased her lively and playful nature.

Above all, Rose held a profound love for her family, particularly for her devoted husband, Wayne Haire, and their son, Joey (Crystal) Haire and step-daughter, Carla (James) Landreth. She was a cherished sister to Daphna Shempert and Lynette Collums, forging bonds with them that would last a lifetime. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Alyssa (Micah Brown) Haire, Kayla Weaver, KB (Colby) Skinner and Avery Marshall Landreth; her great-grandchildren, Kylee Martin, Blaise Weaver, Meely Pratt, Keaton Skinner and Lake Skinner; and a host of nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.

Visitation will be held January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Houston Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service that will commence at 12:00 PM, also at the same location with Bro. Johnny Cherry officiating. Burial will be at Chickasaw Memorial Gardens following the service. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Rose's life, sharing memories and reflecting on the many ways she touched the hearts of those around her.

In our sorrow, we take comfort in knowing that Rose Ellen Haire’s legacy of love, creativity, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts and memories of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed, yet her spirit will live on in the many lives she enriched.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, Everette Franklin and Inez Franklin; her sisters, Hilda Jernigan, Vannie Tackett, Clara Chapman, Alice and Billy Blue and her brother-in-law, Billy Shempert.

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01/11/2026

Juanita Grace Young

Juanita Grace Hollingsworth Young

April 12, 1927– January 10, 2026

Juanita Grace Hollingsworth Young passed away at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, leaving behind nearly a century of love, beauty, faith, and family.

Born in Loyd, Mississippi, on April 12, 1927, she lived a life so full it feels impossible to fit into a few paragraphs.

To her family she was Mama Grace—and before long, she became everyone’s Mama Grace. She had a way of making people feel claimed, seen, and loved. Friends became family. Neighbors became grandchildren. She was an extended grandmother to many who simply needed one.

A Southern Christian lady in every sense, Grace built her life on faith. God and church were not accessories to her life—they were its foundation. She was a lifelong member of North Jackson Street Church of Christ, and her faith was steady, sincere, and quietly powerful. She didn’t just speak about faith, she lived it, leaving a lasting example for generations.

She loved all things lovely—fashion, the beauty shop, a favorite shade of lipstick, a touch of jewelry, freshly done nails. For her, these were small acts of care, pride, and dignity, a way of honoring both herself and others. She believed in showing up with intention and warmth. Her home reflected her heart: festive, welcoming, and always ready for company. Every holiday was an event. Every gathering felt special. She was a hostess in the truest sense of the word.

Her kitchen was sacred ground. Tea cakes, chicken and dressing, and her famous chocolate fudge cake were acts of love disguised as recipes. If you were fed at Mama Grace’s table, you belonged.She adored telling stories of her younger days, especially the love story that defined her life—the one she shared with Malvin “Bo” Young. Their marriage was the kind people write books about. In all the years they were together, no one ever saw them not in love.

Together, she and Bo owned and operated Young’s Studio in Houston, Mississippi for more than 50 years. Through their lens, they captured the milestones of an entire community: weddings, family portraits, school pictures, sports teams, and everyday moments that became treasured memories. Before color photography, Grace hand-tinted portraits, adding life and warmth with her own careful touch. One of her favorite stories was photographing a young Elvis Presley at a talent show at the National Guard Armory in Houston—long before he became The King.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Malvin “Bo” Young, and two grandchildren, Beau Burks Young and Jennifer Young Looney.

She is survived by her children, Larry Young of Denison, Texas, and Beverly Brooks (Randy) of Houston, Mississippi; her grandchildren, Stephanie Brooks Hall of Tupelo, Jason Brooks (Amanda) of Houston, and Jeremy Brooks (Tori) of Houston; along with 11 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews who were the joy of her later years.

A funeral service will be held at Houston Funeral Home Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 2:00 with visitation from 12:00-2:00 PM on Thursday. Burial will be at Chickasaw Memorial Gardens.

Cade Hall, Barry Hall, Eddie Alford, Donnie Alford, Richard Milstead, Greg Hollingsworth and Jimmy Hollingsworth will serve as pallbearers.

Grace leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years but in lives touched. She taught us how to love well, host graciously, live faithfully, and show up beautifully. The world feels quieter without her—but heaven is surely brighter.

View Juanita Grace Young's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/04/2026

Tracy Hugh Whitt



Mr. Tracy Hugh Whitt, 65, of Woodland, died on January 4, 2026. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, January 6, at Houston Funeral Home from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, at 2:00 p.m. at Arbor Grove Baptist Church, officiated by Bro. Ron Harrison and Bro. Jason Pilcher. Burial will follow at Arbor Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

Bill Peel, Colton Peel, Ben Peel, Kirkham Dendy, Curtis Hare, Steve Hare, James Curtis Hare, Howard Fisackerly Dewitt Moore and Jamey Farr will be serving as Pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arbor Grove Baptist Church Family Life Center, 883 CR 93, Houston, MS 38851.

He was born on March 17, 1960, in Houston, MS, to Luther Ell “Bully” Whitt and Joyce McQuary Whitt. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Hazel Hare Whitt; his two daughters, Ellen (Tanner) Roberson of Mantee and Anna Leslie (Jay) McKee of Mathiston; and his son, Jackson Whitt of Woodland. Tracy had two granddaughters, Annie James McKee and Mary Ellynn Roberson, who lovingly referred to him as “Pappy.” He is also survived by his mother, Joyce Whitt of Woodland; his sister, Emily (Bill) Peel of Houston; several special aunts and uncles and several nieces and nephews.

Tracy was known for being a good cook and for enjoying conversations with his friends and clients. He could often be found at Mountain Jack’s or Grocer’s Pride. He was an active member of Arbor Grove Baptist Church, where he served several terms as a deacon. He took pleasure in watching Westerns and the Food Network, often finding inspiration for cooking dishes for his family. He graduated from Ole Miss in 1982 and remained a devoted supporter. He was a member of the Houston Exchange Club and enjoyed Friday luncheons with the group. He had fun playing pool in his shop, loved feeding his chickens and caring for his animals, and we often teased him about being the “wedding dancer.” He loved his family dearly, especially his wife, Hazel, who was his best friend. He will be greatly missed.

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12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! We hope that you all know the reason for the season! Many blessings to each and everyone of you!

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.