Jodi Houghton

Funeral Recording

Surrounded by family and dear friends, our beautiful and valiant daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, friend, and Christlike example, Jodi Twila Houghton, returned to her loving Father in Heaven and many anxiously awaiting her return on Thursday, November 7, 2019.

Jodi was born February 26, 1973, in Salt Lake City, Utah to Norman and Suzette L. Houghton. Her beautiful spirit and soul were quickly embraced and welcomed by her parents and older brother, Troy. Later, she was proud to become a big sister when Suzanne was born. As a young child—and throughout her life—Jodi had a sweet disposition and everyone she met was drawn to her and her smile.

Jodi attended Jordan Valley School, Ridgecrest Elementary, Mount Jordan Middle School, Hillcrest High School, and South Valley School; at each, she made countless friends. In high school, Norm ensured Jodi attended each football and basketball game; those games and time with her dad were precious to both.

Jodi was a tenacious and loyal worker at McDonald’s for 20 years. As front-lobby help, she prided herself in ensuring it was tidy and orderly. She enjoyed taking the UTA Flextrans bus to and from work, and she was proud of herself for being independent, having her job, and occasionally getting a tip from kind customers.

Jodi was an avid BYU fan and cheered mightily each and every football game. As a family, we loved the memories we created with each other and wonderful friends at the games. Jodi was loyal, strong, and true to her BYU Cougars. Beyond the games, Jodi’s true love was going to hear the band play The Cougar Fight Song, with which she would sing along enthusiastically—although usually a count or two behind everyone else. We will miss hearing her sing.

A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jodi loved attending her ward, visiting with neighbors, and serving in the nursery. One of the most treasured experiences of Jodi’s life was being a member of S.N.A.P. (Special Needs Activity Program). The many years of mutual and roadshows were a source of joy for Jodi, and she loved and adored the many wonderful leaders and friends she made there. We thank those who so kindly served her in that program; you are angels.

Jodi’s true joy was her family, and she was ours. From cousin parties to Houghton Family vacations to Disney World to special trips to San Diego with her mom, sister, and wonderful friends, we all loved her. Suzanne, Troy, and sister-in-law, Candace, were each loyal to her and were honored to be her protectors and serve her. In turn, Jodi was a constant blessing and example to her siblings. Jodi’s niece, Tayler, and nephew, Tate, adored her and spent many Saturday afternoons with her. They walked hand in hand with her, and she had a special bond with both.

Following Norm’s death in 2001, Jodi was the spiritual giant that filled his void. The time she spent with her mom, Suzette—especially the last few years—was sacred to both. Suzette was her ultimate caregiver through life.  We will always thank our Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ, for entrusting us with her special spirit. While we know we will be reunited with her someday, we will miss her immensely.

Jodi is survived by her loving mom, Suzette; brother, Troy (Candace); sister, Suzanne; niece, Tayler; nephew, Tate; and many relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her dad, Norm; grandparents; several aunts and uncles; and special friends who were there to welcome her back to her heavenly home.

As her family, we wish to express our love and admiration for Valeo Home Health and Hospice who served Jodi the last few months of her life. A very special thank you to Kylee, Kelcey, and  Nurse Debbie who treated her so very kindly and loved her.

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 15, 2019, at the chapel at 2925 E. Bengal Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121. Friends and family may call at Cannon Mortuary, 2460 E. Bengal Blvd (7600 South), from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, and from 9:45-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Interment at Mountain View Memorial Estates.

Jodi, you are ours and we are yours. You fill our favorite memories in life. Until we meet you again for the eternities, Jodi Girl.