Elsie Jean Houghton

6 April 19204 March 2023

HOUGHTON Elsie Jean

On 4th March 2023, peacefully at Aria Gardens Rest Home surrounded by family.

Much loved mother of Sally, beloved wife of the late Derek Houghton and devoted mother of the late John Houghton.

A service will be held at the Mairangi Bay / Castor Bay Presbyterian Church, 10 Penzance Road, Mairangi Bay on Tuesday 14th March at 11.00am, followed by private cremation. 

Funeral service held at Mairangi Bay Presbyterian Church

Tributes

When you live for almost 103 years the world undergoes huge changes. Aunty Jean may not have embraced the latest digital advances but the things in life that were important to her never changed. Her special love for her family, her warm caring concern for others, her keen interest in education, hobbies and current events as well as her positive sense of humour were constants throughout her life. Thank you Aunty for our store of wonderful memories of the many, many happy times we were lucky enough to share with you. Maureen and Peter

Peter Hope

I wish I could have been there with you in person, but in spirit I am very much with you, as I want to honour and remember an Aunt, who was very important in my earlier life in New Zealand. When I was 13 in 1954, I went from Te Kuiti to St Kentigern’s College in Auckland as a boarder. I spent 5 years there, and while it was very successful for me academically, and sports wise, I missed my family very much. When we were given leave I would often phone Aunty Jean. They were living in the Western Springs area, and they never said no to my visiting!!! It was like being home, as Mum and she were much alike. Aunty Jean cooked all my favourites, and the warmth that she and Uncle Derek showed to me, really helped my loneliness for home between school holidays. As a nephew, she was all I could wish for in an aunt, and for that I am forever grateful. Aunty Jean will always live in my memory as one who had a significant impact on my life. Rest In Peace and Shalom dear Aunty Jean.

On behalf of Stan and Sheryl Walker, Canada

What a wonderful celebration of Aunties life Tuesday was. My enduring memory of Aunty was "What a switched on lady" she was. She could speak with knowledge and authority on so many topics, though if reacting to my Father- it often was a load of rubbish!!! Her sporting knowledge was amazing and we had many long and interesting discussions on who should or shouldn't be in various All Black or NZ cricket teams. As a child I remember Aunty playing lots of silly games with me and in later years- she often reminded me of those times! Thank you Aunty for being such a special person in my life.

Roger Matthews

For me the times I visited Auntie Jean at the village she was always very interested in our family. She had a very good memory and I enjoyed her telling me about her early years. When I left she never failed to say “ Thank you so much for coming”. With love Beth

Beth Walker

An amazing funeral service with a beautiful eulogy by Sally, showing us all what a wonderful woman Aunty Jean was. Such a shame that we didn't meet up with her more times. She had obviously touched the lives of so many people and had lived her life to the full.

Cliff and Angela Houghton

For me, the times I visited Auntie Jean at the village she was always interested in our family. She also shared lots of memories from the past which I was interested to hear. When I left she never failed to say “thank you” for coming to see me.. Sorry I can’t be with you all today. With love Beth

Beth Walker

Jean was always so generous and thoughtful. Even when Sally was properly grown up and running her own house and business, Jean would have a care package of toilet paper, biscuits and coffee for her every time she visited! My love and thoughts go out to Sally and the family. Such a lovely long lifetime of memories will live on with all who knew her.

Leni

I remember a generous- spirited woman who smiled while she delighted in whatever was going on around her. I remember a strong and gracious mother who could still enter the world of my toddler son while she grappled with the loss of her own. I remember an inspirational mother and role model who raised a talented, extraordinary daughter whose character is a credit to both. Bless and rest peacefully Elsie.

Leisa

To a wonderful wife and mother, I didn't know you personally but am privileged to know your daughter. I know how amazing you were because of how amazing your daughter is. You have taught us what it means to have a zest for life, and what it means to live. May your soul rest in peace with your husband and son.

Vandana
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