Vernal "Shorty" Thomas Houston

Mr. Vernal "Shorty" Thomas Houston, age 81, of Greenfield passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Shorty was a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and brother. He was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Greenfield where he served as deacon and remained active until health issues intervened. He was a retired employee of the Good Year Tire and Rubber Company in Union City. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army. Shorty loved watching and listening to gospel music (especially the Gaither's), going to area sports games, and "Drinking Coffee" with his friends. 

Shorty was born May 4, 1944 to the late Horace and Naoma Houston. Shorty and Linda Houston were united in marriage on October 26, 1968, and remained together until she preceded him in death in 2008. 

Shorty is survived by three sons David (Kimberly) Houston of Gleason, Tim (Candice) Houston of Parsons, and Jeff (Sondra) Houston of Kentucky. He is also survived by four sisters, Sarah Tackett of Sharon, Joann Houston of Gleason, Brenda Lovass of Lansing, MI, and Betty Stafford of Latham. Shorty leaves behind nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. 

In addition to his parents and wife, Shorty was preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters: Harold Houston, Bill Houston, Gene Houston, Stanley Houston, Judy Moore, Sandra Townes, and Patricia "Pat" Houston.

Visitation will be held at Williams Funeral Home in Greenfield, TN beginning at 10am on Saturday, May 17 and running until service time at 2pm. Burial will follow in Morris Cemetery in Greenfield. Bro. Ronnie McClure will officiate the services. Pallbearers are Hayden Burris, Clayton Burris, Logan Jackson, Kody Houston, Kaleb Houston, and Johnny Lowery. Honorary Pallbearers are Jim Staley and Pete Dunning.