Houston Franklin Handley

Born on September 15, 1936, in Carmi, Illinois, he was a loving husband to Johnnave Jones-Handley and loving father to daughters Dana Doerfler (Darrin) and Jill Beiter (Rick); stepson Daryl Jones (Jules); and stepdaughter Sheri Kraus (Guy). He was preceded in death by his first wife, Janet Ann (Simpson) Handley; stepdaughter, Amy (Jones) Medley; and grandson, Nicholas Kraus.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Ann Hertlein (Josh), Kristin Boruff (Dan), Avery Beiter, Ryan Jones (Lindsey), Danielle Nordmann (Chris), Olivia Kraus, Cameron Medley, and Madeline Medley; as well as numerous great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

Affectionately known as “Whitey,” Houston proudly served in the U.S. Army as a machinist. He continued his career at McDonnell Douglas, where he worked for 29 years, eventually becoming a machine shop supervisor. His dedication to service extended beyond his professional life—he volunteered for many years as a firefighter in Fairview Heights and served as a district trustee for the Fairview-Caseyville Township Fire Protection District.

Houston had a passion for hobbies that reflected his craftsmanship and curiosity, including model trains, woodworking, and collecting pocket watches.

Houston will be remembered for his gentle spirit, kind heart, friendly demeanor, and his signature corny jokes. He brought warmth and laughter to all who knew him and will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, IL, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to The BackStoppers to support the families of fallen heroes.