George W. Houston

George W. Houston, 72, lifelong resident of New Philadelphia and longtime New Phila City Councilman died Friday, July 11, 2008 in Aultman Hospital following a brief illness.

George followed his father, Major Houston who was the first African American to serve on New Philadelphia council. George served council all but two years since 1985. He was considered an expert on zoning issues for the city and also served on the Tuscarawas County Metropolitan Housing Authority. He was considered a "spending watchdog" by many of his peers.

In addition to his service to New Philadelphia, George was a retired inspector for the Joy Mfg. Co. (now Howden Buffalo) where he worked for thirty two years.

Born December 8, 1935 in New Philadelphia, he was the son of Wilma Walker Houston of New Philadelphia and the late Major Houston.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Dover where he served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and was a longtime usher. He was a 1953 graduate of New Philadelphia High School. George was honored in 2004 as the recipient of the Robert E. Moore Award for outstanding service to the Democratic Party. In his spare time, he enjoyed an occasional round of golf.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Naomi Ransom Houston who died March 15, 2006.

He is survived by his daughter, Tammy Houston and his son, George Shawn (wife, Elizabeth) Houston both of New Philadelphia; his grandson, Michael S. Houston of New Phila; his sister and brother in law, Jacqueline and Robert Sherrell of Dover; mother in law, Marian Ransom of Zanesville along with several nieces, nephews, close cousins, and brothers and sisters in law.

In addition to his father and wife, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, William and Lula Houston and Louis and Sophie Walker.


Homegoing services in love of George will be held Thursday, July 17, 2008 at noon at the First Baptist Church, 140 Regent St., Dover with Rev. Christopher Lowery officiating. He will be buried next to his beloved wife, Naomi in the Dover Burial Park. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 5-8pm and Thursday from 11am to until the time of service. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of George may sign the online register book by visiting the "obituaries" link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 140 Regent St., Dover, Ohio 44622.

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Dover has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Toland-Herzig, Dover
330 343-6132