In loving memory

Helena Kathleen “Kay” (MacIssac) Houston was born September 21, 1943, to Fintan and Marie (Doucette) MacIsaac in Newfoundland, Canada. She was one of nine children. Kay passed peacefully on September 19, 2023 in Tacoma, Washington.

Military marriage brought Kay to the United States at 18 years of age. It was in Tacoma, Washington, where she settled and raised her five children, but she never let you forget that she was a “Newfie”.

Kay was kind, loving, compassionate, giving, hard-working, and a spitfire with a great sense of humor. She was a fierce warrior for her children and those she loved.
Throughout her life, Kay’s employment was always service-based, in one form or another. From working at St. Joseph’s Hospital, to COPES, to private home care, to finishing her career at Franke Tobey Jones Retirement Community, Kay found joy and purpose in “looking after” others. Her open door and open arms were a tremendous comfort to so many throughout her life, especially her children and grandchildren.  In her past time, Kay was an avid reader, who loved food, thrifting, talking on the phone with one arm crossed, and having her grandchildren over.  Anyone who was a part of Kay’s life knew that she had a passionate “green thumb” and enjoyed her social gatherings, cooking and cleaning her home, and ironing everything. She cared for everyone’s children. She would tuck them in good and tight with five minutes of goodnight adages followed by Kay’s unforgettable goodnight kiss. Kay struggled the last two years with the onset of Alzheimer’s and living the reality that she knew, but she never forgot the love she had for her family and friends.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents, Fintan and Marie MacIsaac, her sister, Patricia “Tish”, and her brothers, Tom, Pat, and Frankie MacIsaac.
She is also preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Elizabeth Houston. Sons, François Houston and Bernard Houston. And her best friend of 52 years, Erika “Vogi” Smith.
She is survived by her sisters, Clare McIsaac and Ursula Herrit, Her brothers, Ted and Randy MacIsaac, all of Newfoundland Canada. As well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom she adored.

Kay is also survived by her children: her son Lee Houston, JR., of Florida; Leslie Burt (Larenzo, Sr.); and Bernadine Houston, both of Tacoma, Washington.
She is also survived by her most beloved grandchildren: François Gross (Madalyn), Denisha Barber, Martiauna Alexander, Marteja Alexander, Jessica Sanders, Zonea Burt, and Larenzo Burt, Jr., Taylor Crawford, and Connor Behan.
As well as her 8 great-grandchildren she cherished: Jaelah, Caleb, Zeona, Jaxson, Sofia, Jade, Ava, and Christian.

“Good night, God bless you. Sleep tight, and don’t let the bed bugs bite! I love you.”

The family would like to express gratitude with a special “Thank you” to Integrity Adult Family Home for the care provided to our mom and grandma. We know that she was loved and well cared for by Mary, James, Mary “2”, Jane, and Shamarie.

I also extend gratitude to all who helped me with Mom and for the prayers, calls, visits, and kindness during Mom’s last days.

Kay has touched many hearts and will be missed by all.