In the early hours of September 17, 2024, Heaven's gates opened to receive a faithful servant of the Lord into her eternal home.

Clara Denise Houston, age 58, of Laurel, MS, passed into eternity peacefully, surrounded by her family in her home. Known for her fierce strength and unwavering faith, Denise touched countless lives with her love, compassion, and commitment to both her family and her church.

Born on October 23, 1965 to Meldon and the late Linda Holifield, Denise grew up in Laurel, Mississippi, where she was nurtured in faith and family values that would shape her life.

Throughout her years, she embodied the principles of resilience, grace, love, and service. After receiving her education at West Jones High School, Jones County Junior College, and the University of Southern Mississippi,

Denise embraced her role as a dedicated mother and daughter, pouring herself into raising her son, Blake, and caring for her parents. In every season, she modeled unwavering strength, finding her greatest purpose in loving and serving her family and serving her church, Salem Heights Baptist Church.

Her favorite verse, Jeremiah 29:11, was a guiding truth in her life: "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" Through every challenge, she trusted in God's plan, demonstrating faith that anchored her and inspired those around her.

She was known by several names, two of which are most notable. She became "Niecee" to her church family at Salem Heights Baptist Church. Countless young girls in her Sunday School classes looked up to her as she led them to follow Jesus.

She also became "Granna" to her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and pride. Her legacy of love, faith, and perseverance will continue to shape and inspire her family for generations to come.

Denise was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Linda C. Holifield.

She is survived by her father, Meldon E. Holifield; her son, Blake W. Houston, and his wife Lauren; her cherished grandchildren, Henley Grace Houston and Hatcher William Houston; her brother Dwayne Holifield and his wife Melissa; her nephew Acy Harris, his wife Makalah and their son Waylon; her niece Lauren Holifield; her niece Kolbi Ulland and her husband Justin; and many dear friends and extended family who were touched by her life.

Pallbearers will be Josh Carter, Hayden Tew, Ricky Graves, Brent Davis, Ken McClain, Justin Ulland, and Corey Jefcoat.

Visitation will be held at Salem Heights Baptist Church on Thursday, September 19, from 5:30-7:30pm, with a service celebrating her life to follow on Friday, September 20, at 11am. Floral donations available through Doris Tanner's Flowers, and/or Gideon

Bibles may be made in memory of Denise Houston through Salem Heights Baptist Church.

Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342 .

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.com