Beverly Rose Hougland

Beverly Rose Hougland, age 82, of St. Cloud, FL, passed away peacefully on

September 25 th , 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Beverly was born on October 29, 1942, in Loyall, Kentucky, to Elmer and Daisy Martin.

She grew up in nearby Harlan with her twin brother Rick and quickly became known for

her gentle spirit and unfailing kindness. Beverly never spoke a harsh word about

anyone, choosing instead to see the good in people and extend friendship wherever she

went.

During her school years, she was active and well-loved playing the flute in the band,

serving as a cheerleader, and participating in the Beta Club. Her easy smile and

welcoming nature made her a friend to all, traits that would carry through her entire life

Beverly graduated from Loyall High School in 1960 and went on to further her education

at Eastern Kentucky University. She dedicated the early years of her professional life to

teaching, where she quickly became known as a compassionate and inspiring educator

who cared deeply for her students.

After stepping away from the classroom for a time to focus on raising her family, Beverly

poured her energy into being a devoted wife and mother while also giving generously of

her time through volunteer work in the community. Her commitment to service and

helping others was a constant theme throughout her life.

In 1979, Beverly joined the Osceola Council on Aging as the Meals on Wheels

coordinator. What began as a role centered on ensuring seniors receive nutritious meals

quickly grew into a lifelong calling. Through her dedication, leadership, and vision, she

advanced through the organization and was appointed Chief Executive Officer. For

nearly three decades, she guided the Council with determination and heart,

transforming it into the multifaceted agency it is today; an organization recognized for its

wide array of programs and deep impact on the lives of seniors, families, and vulnerable

residents throughout Osceola County.

Beverly was the proud mother of Catherine Arft and her spouse Bob Arft; Christin

Hougland and her spouse Martin Hagness; Warren Hougland and his spouse Mary

Hougland; and her youngest child Amanda Hougland. She was known as "Granny" to

Audrey, Brittany, Marc, Melissa, Grant, Tyler, Joshua, Connor, Steven, Autumn, Aiden,

Rowan, and Brynnlee. Beverly was also blessed with her Great Grandchildren Shawn,

Madison, Alexis, Ryan, Kaiden, Steven Dale, Annelise, Levi. Her family was the joy of

her life, and she filled their lives with love and taught us all the importance to give to

others in need.

Those who knew Beverly will forever remember her for her kindness, her deep

compassion, and her unwavering vision. She had a rare ability to lead with both strength

and gentleness, inspiring others not only through her words but through the countless

ways she lived out her values. Beverly leaves behind a legacy defined by generosity,

integrity, and a true spirit of giving. Her leadership was never about recognition, but

about lifting others up and creating lasting change in her community.

She is survived by all of her children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by

her parents and her twin brother, Richard Martin.

A celebration of Beverly's life will be held on Wednesday October 1st from 3pm to 6pm

with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 3:00 p.m. and a service at 5:00 p.m.

The celebration will by held at the Osceola Council on Aging, 700 Generation Point

Kissimmee, FL 34744. The family welcomes the community, friends, and loved ones to

gather in remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Meals on Wheels in her

memory.

Beverly will be deeply missed, but her spirit and love will live on through all who had the

privilege of knowing her.