Yvonne Houston Obituary Obituary  2024.

Yvonne Patricia Houston Age 81, of East Orange, New Jersey, passed away surrounded by her immediate family on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, New Jersey. Yvonne Patricia Houston was born on March 28, 1943, in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, to Arthur and Susie Brown. She was the eldest of two children and spent her formative years in Montclair, where she was educated in the Montclair Public Schools. In the 1960s, when the presence of African American cheerleaders was a rarity, Yvonne broke through barriers by making the cheerleading squad. Her achievement was not only a testament to her exceptional talent and determination but also a groundbreaking moment that challenged and transformed the norms of her time, paving the way for greater inclusion and diversity in school activities. In 1957, Yvonne met Dennis Houston at a Montclair/Orange football game. Dennis, smitten from the moment he saw her, declared, "That's going to be my wife." True to his word, they married in 1965 and were blessed with three children: Kim, Kevin, and Tamara. Yvonne's life was deeply anchored in her faith. Together with Dennis they shared a spiritual journey and often worshiped together. Yvonne dedicated herself to her family and career with equal passion. After taking time to care for her young children, she pursued higher education, earning an Associate's Degree from Essex County College. Her professional journey led her to the East Orange School District in 1977, where she worked as an Administrative Assistant at Stockton School and later as a Confidential Secretary in the Assistant Superintendent's office. Yvonne retired in June, 2010 after a rewarding 33-year career. A vibrant spirit, Yvonne cherished traveling with her husband, Dennis, and explored various Caribbean islands. Summers were particularly special, as she and Dennis, along with dear friends Ronnie & Doris Spivey and Ernie & Barbara Jackson, took annual trips to Cape Cod, Massachusetts with their extended families. Her interests included reading, attending plays, and engaging in outdoor activities. Above all, Yvonne's greatest joy came from her two granddaughters, Kierra and Kiana, whom she affectionately called her "Angel Babies." Yvonne is predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Susie Brown, and her brother, Arthur Brown, Jr. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dennis; children Kim (Carl), Kevin (Diane), and Tamara; grandchildren Kierra and Kiana; and a host of special friends and relatives. Yvonne Patricia Houston will be remembered for her thoughtfulness, kindness, and unwavering love. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew and loved her.