Marylin Houston

Marilyn Houston, 99, of Manchester, Vt (formerly of Arlington, Vt.) died October 2, 2026. She was predeceased in 2014 by her husband, Neal J. Houston. 

Marilyn was born May 22, 1927 in Indianapolis, Ind. the daughter of Elden and Florence Mills. She spent her formative years in Forest Hills and Brooklyn, N.Y.; Westport, Ma.; and West Hartford, Ct. where her father was a Congregational Pastor. She was a proud alumni of the University of Vermont, graduating in 1948.

Marilyn and Neal met in college and worked for the Burlington Free Press. They started their family in Burlington and then Plainfield, VT as Neal’s career transitioned into Vermont State service. Their six children were all born in Vermont before the family moved to Alexandria, VA. Always active and engaging, Marilyn raised her children; worked as a researcher, proofreader, and volunteer; and supported Neal’s work in Washington. At retirement, Neal and Marilyn moved to Arlington, Vt.

Throughout her life Marilyn was a lively, compelling soul. She challenged everyone she met with an intellectual curiosity that was unmatched. Her interests were wide ranging and included travel, gardening, music, tennis, bridge, reading, grammar, humor, you name it. She loved Vermont: the stone walls, and mountain landscapes, the clouds. For many years Marilyn was fulfilled by her work as a guardian-ad-litem at the Bennington District Court. Recently she enjoyed several years at Bromley Manor in Manchester, Vt developing strong friendships within the supportive community there.

Marilyn will be dearly missed by her 6 children: Deborah Houston, Rebecca Moore, Laura Stewart, Neal Houston, Jr., Virginia Lima, Alison Ryan, and their respective spouses. She also leaves 11 cherished grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. The family plans a memorial celebration in the spring.