Carolyn Ann (Smith) Houston, age 78, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, was born on March 2, 1947, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late James and Fannie Ray Smith. At the age of five, she moved with her family to Cleveland, Ohio, where she attended Lafayette Elementary and later graduated from John Hay High School.

During her early years, Carolyn was a vibrant and spirited teenager who loved dancing and spending time with her brothers, Maurice and Darrell. Throughout her life, she carried with her the invaluable lessons taught by her mother—lessons of strength, endurance, and the importance of caring for family and keeping them close.

At the age of 20, Carolyn married Leon Porter, and from that union came her daughter, Corazon. In 1971, she married Edward Houston, and together they had two children, Anitria and Toriano. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Houston; her beloved grandson, Toriano Elijah Houston; and her sisters Judy Wiengarner, Wanda Smith, and Kwanis Sandifer.

A woman of grace, quiet strength, and deep faith, Carolyn devoted her life to her family, her community, and her walk with God. She was a longtime member of Temple Baptist Church, where she found comfort in worship and fellowship. Carolyn took great pride in attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, traveling, hosting unforgettable parties and cookouts, and sharing laughter-filled moments with loved ones. Her children, grandchildren, and niece were the pride and joy of her life.

Carolyn began her professional journey as a PCNA at University Hospitals, but her most treasured role was that of a stay-at-home mother. Later, she returned to the workforce and became a crane operator at LTV Steel, where she worked with pride until her retirement from LTV/ArcelorMittal.

On June 18, 2025, Carolyn softly said, “I want to see my mom now,” as she lay down to rest. On June 20, 2025, she passed away peacefully in her own bed, held in the loving arms of her daughters and granddaughter. Just before her final breath, she gently whispered, “Mom.”

She leaves to cherish her memory: her children, Corazon Porter, Toriano Houston Sr., and Anitria Houston; her grandchildren, Gabrielle, Toriano Jr., and Edward; her brothers, Maurice Smith and Darrell (Angela) Smith; her beloved sister, Paulette Campbell; sister-in-law, Iris Deboe; special cousins Joann Roland, William Thornton, Glenda Gant, Wayne,  Marsha, and Judy Dennis-Reed; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and childhood friend Shirely Bogart.

Carolyn will be remembered for her elegance, strength, determination, and warm heart. Her unwavering love and devotion to her family remain her greatest legacy—one that will continue to live on in the lives of all who knew and loved her.