Exie B. Daughtry

Mrs. Exie B. Daughtry was born in Keachi, Louisiana (DeSoto Parish), on November 13, 1930, to Arthur Lee and Ethel Kellum. She later moved to Houston, where she and her husband, James L. Daughtry, who preceded her in death, made their home in the Acres Home community. She lived an exemplary life marked by faith, service, and devotion to her family and community. As resident of Acres Home, she became known as a beloved neighborhood leader & mother whose comfort could make every person she encountered feel loved, a woman who always carried herself with grace, a cook that’s so great it made you want to come back for a meal every day and the power of her prayers were felt all over the world. Her love, her kitchen, her kindness, and her impeccable beauty were signatures of who she was.

She was a beloved and faithful member of Highland Heights Church of God in Christ, where she served as church treasurer for 63 years. She took great pride in the work of the church. She and her best friend, Zelma Croomes Randolph (who also preceded her in death), served the church with honor and excellence. She also guided and mentored Sis. Clara Wilburn, and helped shape her ministry in church finances. At the time of death, she was a member of New Beginnings Christian Tabernacle (formerly Highland Heights C.O.G.I.C.) under the leadership of Pastor Clifton Walker.

Exie’s life was a masterclass in the dignity of work. For many years, she dedicated herself to the service of others, working as a nursemaid and janitorial custodian. Her professional journey also included many years of dedicated service at Mustang Caterpillar, where she remained a valued employee until her retirement. However, retirement for Exie was simply the beginning of a new chapter. Fueled by her love for children and her community, she successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship, owning and operating her own daycare business for many years. In 1996, she became the first visionary supporter and the sole inspiration to ignite her granddaughter, Deavra Daughtry’s 30-year-old successful elderly home care business, rooted in faith, compassion, service, and care for others.

Her life was one of dedication—to her family, her church, and her community. She was the glue that held her family together, offering wisdom that only nearly a century of life could provide, and her support created a foundation of love and strength for all. Her legacy is not found in titles or accolades but in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her great great-grandchildren. She leaves a legacy of resilience, steadfast faith, hard work, wise stewardship, devoted service and an unwavering love-a remarkable example that will empower all who knew our beloved. The Mayor of Houston designated November 8th as the official day to commemorate and recognize Exie B. Daughtry Day in Houston, TX. She was a rare jewel. Her home was always open, her advice was always honest, and her prayers were a constant covering for those she cherished.

She was preceded in death by siblings: Arthur Lee Kellum Jr., Huey P. Kellum, Eddie Kellum, Murphy Kellum, Willie Mae Kellum, Lewis Kellum and Paul Kellum. She also was preceded in death by children: James Lee Daughtry Jr., Joyce Marie Daughtry, Earnest L. Daughtry, Donald Lee Daughtry and Lynell Daughtry

She leaves to mourn her passing; siblings: Iris Kellum King, Foster Kellum (Linda), Shirley Kellum McClure; children: Jeanette Bookman (Roger Bookman II), Waymon Daughtry and Clayborn Daughtry (Jo Ann Love); grandchildren: Deavra Daughtry, James Daughtry III, Regina Valrie, Tamberly Dumas, Clayborn Daughtry Jr., Fredrick Daughtry, Omar Daughtry, Stephanie Rogers, Tracey Gatlin, Danitra Daughtry, Timeiki Hedspeth, Nevera Lynn Daughtry, Daimonique Daughtry, Donald Daughtry Jr., Kimberly Daughtry, Richard Daughtry, DeMarcus Daughtry, Matthew Green, Jessica Metoyer, Steven Green, Phillip Green, Celeste Green, Daniel Green, Nathaniel Green, Doris Green, Tiera Green, Kiera Ramos, Roger Lee Bookman III, Reginald Watson (Deceased), Tuesdai Watson (Deceased), James “Hez” Rogers (Deceased); a host of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.