Nancy Barney Houston

Nancy Barney Houston, age 69, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Panguitch, Utah. She was born on May 25, 1956, in Richfield, Utah, to Miles and Esther Barney.

Nancy grew up surrounded by a loving family and maintained close ties with her siblings throughout her life: Ronald Barney (Jan), Elliot Barney (Lorrie), Janice Hatch (Jim Marsden), Connie Dalton (Russell), Karen Christensen (Ken), and Bob Barney (Lynell). Family was always central to Nancy’s life, and she cherished these relationships deeply.

On March 7, 1974, Nancy married her high school sweetheart, Randy Houston, in the Provo Utah Temple. Their marriage was rooted in love, faith, and devotion to family and became the foundation of a life spent serving others together.

Nancy was a devoted mother to her children Mandy Soper, Sam Houston (deceased), and Mat Houston (Gen). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Aiden, Ashton, and Addalee Soper, and to Cortney May (Garrett), Cael Houston, Camryn Houston, Collins Houston, and Chase Houston. Being “Grandma Nancy” brought her immense joy, and she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Nancy worked in many roles, each reflecting her deep compassion and love for children. Early in her life, she worked at Cedar High School with students with special needs, where her patience and kindness left a lasting impact. Later, she served as a librarian at Panguitch Elementary School, a role perfectly suited to her love of books and children. She delighted in reading stories aloud and making each child feel seen and valued. 

Nancy had many gifts and passions. She loved to read and listen to music, took pride in making a house feel like a warm and welcoming home, and was known far and wide for her baking—especially her homemade bread, which many considered the very best.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Nancy possessed a strong and beautiful testimony of Jesus Christ. She served diligently in many callings, including Primary, Young Women President, Stake Young Women, Sunday School Teacher, and Relief Society Instructor. In her later years, even after losing her sight, Nancy continued to teach and uplift others, becoming a powerful example of faith, courage, and perseverance.

Nancy was known for her sharp wit, warm smile, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable and loved. She had a rare gift for blessing others through her own trials, meeting challenges with determination, grace, and unwavering faith. Her life was a quiet testimony of service, endurance, and Christlike love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Miles and Esther Barney, and her beloved son, Sam Houston.

Nancy’s legacy lives on through her family, her testimony, and the countless lives she touched.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until that joyful reunion promised through the Savior she loved and served.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 12:00 Noon in the Panguitch Stake Center. 
Viewings will be held on the night of Friday, February 6, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the church, 
and again prior to services from 10:00 to 11:30 am. 
Burial will be in the Panguitch Cemetery.
Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary of Richfield, Salina, & Manti
An online guestbook can be found at www.maglebymortuary.com