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Macon Funeral Home - Franklin

261 Iotla Street

Franklin, North Carolina

Emily Houston Obituary

HIGHLANDS - Mrs. Emily Potts Houston, beloved mother, grandmother, sister and faithful servant of God, entered her eternal rest Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at the Franklin House.
Born April 8, 1936, in Highlands, Emily was the cherished daughter of the late Samuel Eugene Potts and Alice Octavia Reese Potts. Her life was deeply shaped by the roots of faith and family that surrounded her from the very beginning.
Emily was a member of Highlands First Baptist Church, where her grandfather, Rev. W. T. "Billy" Potts, once pastored for many years. Her devotion to her faith was unwavering. She poured her heart into teaching Sunday School and continued sharing scripture, lessons and encouragement even during her time at the Franklin House. For several years, she was also a devoted member of Head of Tennessee Baptist Church in Dillard, Georgia, where her presence and kindness touched many lives.
A gifted cook and baker, Emily found joy in preparing meals that brought her family together. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter and the unmistakable aroma of something wonderful in the oven. Above all, she treasured her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, each one a blessing she held close to her heart.
Emily was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband of 62 years, Mr. W. E. "Gene" Houston, who passed in 2016; five brothers and two sisters.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith through her children, Steve Houston, Brenda Keener, Vickie Chambers and Boone (Michele) Houston. She is also survived by her sister, Linda Calloway; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.
A celebration of life was held Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 p.m., at Macon Funeral Home. Reverend Jim Kinard officiated. The family received friends prior to the service at the funeral home from 1-2 p.m.
Honorary pallbearers were Spencer Chambers, John Houston, Sam Chambers, Jeremy Keener, Michael Houston, Darin Keener and Trey Velez.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice, in honor of Emily's generous spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others.
Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com. Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Franklin Press from Feb. 18 to Feb. 25, 2026.

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Memorial Events
for Emily Houston

Feb

14

Visitation

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Macon Funeral Home

261 Iotla St, Franklin, NC 28734

Feb

14

Celebration of Life

2:00 p.m.

Macon Funeral Home

261 Iotla St, Franklin, NC 28734

Funeral services provided by:

Macon Funeral Home - Franklin

261 Iotla Street, Franklin, NC 28734

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