James Dean Houston was born on August 3, 1957, in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Raymond and Velda (Shelby) Houston. James entered into eternal rest on Thursday, February 9, 2012 at his home in Tarkio, Missouri.

Jim's early years were spent in rural Shenandoah with his parents Raymond and Velda. James worked for Nishna Productions in Shenandoah and later for Northwest Industries in Rockport, Missouri.

Jim was a member of the First Christian Church in Tarkio, Missouri. Some of his interests included bowling, going out to eat, attending church, spending time with family and friends, and he always looked forward to celebrating Christmas and his birthday.

Jim was preceded in death of his parents; two brothers J.H. and George Houston and a sister Louise Shaw.

Those left to cherish his memory include his brothers Raymond Houston and wife Rozella of Shenandoah and Danny Houston and wife Fran of Tarkio; sister Pat Shaw of Shenandoah; Aunt Georgia Shelby of Lawrence, KS; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.