Carol L. Houlton

Carol L. Houlton

March 30, 1938 -January 21, 2025

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we gather to honor and celebrate the incredible life of Carol L. Houlton—a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. For 86 wonderful years, Carol filled the world with kindness, creativity, and unwavering love, leaving behind a legacy that will be treasured forever.

In 1960, Carol married the love of her life, James Houlton, at St. Cecilia’s Church, where they were devoted parishioners. Together, they built a life centered around family, laughter, and love. Their marriage of 60 beautiful years was a testament to their deep devotion, and their bond remained unbreakable even after James’s passing on November 13, 2020.

Carol’s greatest joy was her family. As a mother of five, a grandmother to four, and a great-grandmother to two, she poured her heart into supporting and nurturing her children. She was their biggest cheerleader—especially when it came to their love of gymnastics. She didn’t just watch from the sidelines; she became a respected gymnastics judge, earning the nickname “the judge who always smiled.” Her warmth and encouragement left a lasting impact on countless young athletes.

Carol also found great fulfillment in her work at Nebraska Gold Gymnastics, where she was a cherished presence in the office. While she worked hard to support the sport she loved, she was also known for sneaking in a game (or ten) of FreeCell Solitaire when things were quiet! Carol’s love of sports extended far beyond gymnastics. She was a die-hard Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, cheering on both the football and volleyball teams with fierce loyalty. She was also an enthusiastic Kansas City Chiefs fan, celebrating every victory with excitement and pride.

She had an incredible creative spirit and a deep love for dollhouses and miniatures, spending countless hours crafting intricate, detailed houses with her friends at a favorite shop in Dundee. Every piece she worked on reflected her artistry and attention to detail.

Her creativity truly shined during the holidays, especially at Christmas, when her beautifully decorated tree became the heart of her home. Each year, she delighted her family and friends with a new surprise theme and color scheme, making the season even more magical.

In her later years, Carol also found great comfort in the companionship of her beloved cats. They brought her immense joy, and she adored their presence in her home.

Carol was a light in the lives of all who knew her. Her warmth, generosity, and passion for life made the world a better place, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know her.

Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on—in the family she adored, the lives she touched, and the love she shared so freely.

Carol, you will always be in our hearts.

Carol is survived by her five children: daughters Barb Bottieri and Kris Houlton, sons Don Houlton, Terry (Amy) Houlton, and Steve Houlton; grandchildren: Christina (Greg) Fountain, Cody (Jessica) Houlton, Garrett Houlton, Trent Houlton, and Sophie St. Amour; and great-grandchildren, Alexander Fountain and Adelaide Houlton.

She was preceded in death by loving husband, James M. Houlton; brother, Don (Judy) Nickerson; and sister, Yvonne Nickerson.

Visitation: Tuesday, January 28th from 5-7pm at West Center Chapel. 

Funeral: Wednesday, January 29th, 11am at West Center Chapel.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery.

Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com