Betty L. Houston

Betty L. Houston, affectionately known as “Betty Boop,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on June 3, 1935, in Columbus, Ohio, she was the youngest of seven children born to the late Walter and Susan (Hodge) Penn.

Betty dedicated 35 years of service to Nationwide Insurance before retiring. A woman of vibrant spirit and boundless generosity, she loved Lincoln cars, bowling, shopping, music, dancing, and above all, serving our Lord Jesus Christ. Her selflessness knew no bounds—she was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

A devoted member of Clair United Methodist Church, Betty was one of the founders of the food pantry and community meals. She was Chairperson of the Usher board and SPPRC. Miss Betty was the oldest member of Clair and the longest attending member. Miss Betty was also instrumental in bringing in Linworth, Scioto Ridge and Groveport United Methodist Church’s as community meal partners. She was also an enthusiastic fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Ohio State Buckeyes.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husbands, William “Buddy” Lucear and Lyle A. Houston; her son, Daniel Scott Lucear; siblings, Anita (Allen) Blackwell, Walter (Eleanor) Penn, Wallace (Iona) Penn, Thomas (Pauline) Penn and Norma Evans; in-laws, Peggy (Billy) Peyton and Juanita (Ulysses) Scarver; and nephew, Allen Blackwell, Jr.

Betty leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her daughter SueEllyn (Kenneth) Mullins; grandchildren, Sterling L. Mullins, Taylor D. Mullins, Sydney A. Mullins; great-grandchildren, Kaylin Schmidt, Axel M. Seiber, Joshua McGath; sister, Nancy Page; brother-in-law, Ronald Moore and a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends. A special thank-you is extended to Donna Harvey, Keith English, StoryPoint Independent/Assistant Living Community, Corsocare Care team and Hospice Nurses for their love and support.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Betty’s life on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Clair United Methodist Church, 293 E. Barthman Ave., Columbus, OH 43207. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 PM, officiated by Dr. Charles W. Ferguson. Entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Betty’s memory to the Clair United Methodist Church Food Pantry.