Earl R. Houff, Sr., 88, of Salem, passed away peacefully of pancreatic cancer at home on Tuesday morning, December 29, 2015.
Earl was preceded in death by his loving and dedicated wife of 46 years, Martha Houff. He is survived by his son, E. Ray Houff, Jr. and wife, Astra; daughters, Paula Holdren, Sherry Buckner and husband, Alan, and Kathy Wilson and husband, Tim; grandchildren, Jason Buckner, Angela Houff Bryant, Bryan Houff, Ricky Holdren, Andy Holdren, Amanda Holdren, Brad Houff, and Matt Bowyer; great-grandchildren, Brittany, Caitlyn, Hannah, Madison, Kinsley, Hayden, Parker, and Presley; and his brother, James Houff.
He was an active member of Bethel Baptist Church, was recognized as Deacon Emeritus for years of dedicated service in deacon ministry, and served on numerous church committees.
Throughout his business career, Earl was employed by Associated Groceries, Hop-In Stores, Getty Mart, and the last 15 years with Freedom First Credit Union. He enjoyed working and surrounding himself around people. For many years he volunteered his time to Easter Seals.
A special thanks is extended to the dedicated caregivers with Generation Solutions, Helpful Hands, and Good Samaritan Hospice for taking such good care of Dad during the past few months.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, January 1, 2016 in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 2, 2016, also in the chapel, with the Rev. Brenda Rowe and the Rev. Ivey Adams officiating. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either the American Cancer Society or the Easter Seals. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.
The Houff family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441.First Visitation
Friday, January 1st, 2016 2:00pm - 4:00pm,
John M. Oakey & Son Chapel
305 Roanoke Boulevard
Salem, Virginia 24153
Second Visitation
Friday, January 1st, 2016 6:00pm - 8:00pm,
John M. Oakey & Son Chapel
305 Roanoke Boulevard
Salem, Virginia 24153
Service Information
Saturday, January 2nd, 2016 11:00am,
John M. Oakey & Son Chapel
305 Roanoke Boulevard
Salem, Virginia 24153
Interment Location
Sherwood Memorial Park
1250 East Main Street
Salem, Virginia 24153
