The Reverend David C. Houston

Let us remember with thanksgiving the life and ministry of Rev. David C. Houston, 88, who passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at Vassar Brothers Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY.

David was born in Bronxville, NY to Margaret C. and Ralph M. Houston. He was joined several years later by a sister, Susan M. Houston (Judy Kaplan). Pastor Houston graduated from Hebron Academy, West Virginian Wesleyan College and Garret Theological Seminary of Northwestern University.

He was licensed to preach in 1959 and was a pastor in the United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. David served the following churches in the NYAC: Setauket UMC, Beacon: Christ UMC, Poughkeepsie: Trinity UMC, Centerport UMC. Norwalk UMC. David was District Superintendent of the Hudson North District for six years from 1986 to 1992. He retired in 1999. David, however, continued to serve as pastor from 2003 until 2015 for the following Catskill Hudson churches: Port Ewen: Town of Esopus UMC, Oliverbridge UMC and Samsonville UMC. And Shady UMC.

In 1956 David married Janet Warfel and they had 3 sons, Timothy (Jean) of Centerport NY, Colin (Patricia) of Boiceville NY and Brian (Deirdre) of Millbrook NY. In 1980 he married Elizabeth Ann Rozell who along with her two children, Bonnie Allen of Poughkeepsie and John (Michelle) Burk of Pleasant Valley, joined the family.

In 1910, David’s grandfather, Hough Houston, purchased some land in Mt. Tremper, NY, which was to become “Camp”. Camp was a place for Houston’s to retreat, play, wonder and to renew our spirit. David loved to spend time at “Camp” with his grandchildren, Peter and Thomas Houston, Alyson & Emily Houston, Katherine Burk, Nicole and Gregory Allen.

David's parting word to all is a wish that each of us might find a place where God is a friend and dreams are the currency of hope and vitality.

A memorial service will take place at 12 noon on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 269 Mill Street, Poughkeepsie New York. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to First Congregational United Church of Christ, 269 Mill Street, Poughkeepsie New York 12601, or a charity that is special to you.

Blessings and prayers to the Houston family at this time of loss.
 
Grace and peace,
 
Margaret Howe
Conference Secretary