Letter to Frank Houston

Granddaddy, 
Whenever I think of the bedrock of our family, it’s definitely you. You not only showed me what it was like to pursue your goals in life, but to also achieve them gracefully and without regret. You faced so much adversity at a young age, that none of us would ever have to face, from having to drop out of school to take care of your family to growing up in a time where you experienced segregation and were the only black man in your office. But even at those crossroads, you overcame, demanded attention, and never allowed anyone to define you as you continuously achieved milestones for yourself and ultimately your family. My fondest memories were working alongside you and grandma during those hot South Carolina summers. Meeting up at Huddle House in Augusta, Georgia and waving my parents goodbye, I didn’t know the magnitude that those trips would have on my life. Those summers were overrun with fun and laughter, but yet I got to experience your work ethic up close and in person. Unfortunately, those summers ended up changing. We went from riding across the Low Country in those Little Debbie trucks to frequenting dialysis three times a week. But even then, you were strong and fearless. You commanded the attention of the dialysis workers and other patients. When you walked in, they knew “Houston was in the house.” Even as you awaited your kidney transplant, I knew the frustration you felt every time a kidney was ready, but became out of reach for various reasons. But you knew that God would make a way, and He did. Whether it was business or working within the ministry, you gave it one hundred and ten percent without wavering. You showed true dedication to God and your family. Even as that led to what most would consider fulfillment, you never became complacent. Gone, but never forgotten. Your spirit lives on within each and every one of us.  

With Love, Chris (Tina)