Judith Lane Collins Houghton

Judith Lane Collins Houghton, born on November 24, 1939, in Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, in Bellville, Texas. Her extraordinary life was one marked by unwavering faith, boundless kindness, and a deep love for her family—qualities that touched so many hearts along her journey.

She is the daughter of Julius "Rip" Patton Collins and Lander Sybil Reiszner Collins, Judith was a graceful presence whose infectious smile could brighten the darkest of days. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, embodying the warmth and love that only a remarkable soul could offer. Married to Philip Everest Houghton on November 26, 1961, she shared a partnership rooted in devotion and enduring friendship. 

Judith graduated from Milby High School and pursued two years of higher education at Sam Houston State University. She dedicated much of her career to serving the community as a bus driver for Katy and Bandera Independent School Districts, where her care and attentiveness left lasting impressions on countless children and parents alike.

Throughout her life, Judith lived in Houston, Katy, Bandera, Bellville, and Hempstead, weaving a rich tapestry of memories and friendships in each community. Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Bellville, she not only embraced her faith but also gave back generously through teaching Sunday School, and church lector in her early years, and leading as a Girl Scout Leader.

Her hobbies reflected the quiet joy she found in everyday moments—fishing, crocheting, piecing together puzzles, reading with passion, cooking with love, and sharing treasured family vacations. These simple pleasures enriched the lives of those around her and created lasting bonds that will continue to comfort her family.

Judith’s family was the cornerstone of her life. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Philip Everest Houghton of Bellville; her children, Sybil Eagan and her husband Mike of Bellville, Anne Davis and her husband Chet of Bellville, Connie Aiken and her husband Robert of Rosanky, and Jay Houghton and his wife Karla of Katy. Her legacy lives on vividly in her grandchildren Brandon (Samantha) Eagan, Marcus (Amanda) Eagan, Jenna Davis, Reese (Alexis) Davis, Kori (Taka) Sadanaga, Philip Aiken, Gil Houghton, Michael Houghton, and Ricky (Avery) Estrada—and through her great-grandchildren Sutton and Cameron, Ellie and Hunter, Millie Jo and Kirbie Sue, Uta and Aki, and Raven, who carry forward her spirit with love and joy.

A cherished aunt to Suzanne (Lenny) Steffens, Camille Collins, Cathy Collins, Cindy Lambright, Lisa Collins, and Craig Collins, Judith’s generosity and kindness extended well beyond her immediate family, touching numerous great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and dear friends who will mourn her loss and celebrate her beautiful life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Julius "Rip" and Sybil Collins; her brothers Donald R. Collins and Michael W. Collins; and her nephew James Michael Collins.

In this sacred space, friends and family will gather to remember a woman whose faith, love, laughter, and devotion made a lasting imprint on all fortunate enough to know her. Judith Lane Houghton’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift, forever etched in the hearts of those she cherished so deeply.

Pallbearers are Brandon Eagan, Marcus Eagan, Philip Aiken, Reese Davis, Ricky Estrada, Mike Eagan, Chet Davis, and Robert Aiken.

To the dedicated staff at Baylor Scott and White System:

A heartfelt Thank You for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness you showed to Judith ‘Judy’ Lane Houghton. You brought comfort to our entire family during one of the most difficult times in our lives.

-The Houghton Family