Final Salute

Mr. Michael Douglas Houtchings, 78, of Lexington, died on February 18, 2025. Born in Asheville, NC, he was the son of the late Annie Belle Allred Houtchings and the late Leon Brooks Houtchings. He was a member of the East Columbia Pentecostal Holiness Church and had a deep love for God, his family, and his friends.

He retired from Schneider Electric Company, where he worked as an electrical tester. Additionally, he served in the Navy as part of the Construction Battalion, also known as the CBs (“Seabees”).

He was known for his warmth and friendliness and was often described as a “hugger.” He loved engaging in conversations and never met a stranger, especially if they had any connection to the armed forces.

Survivors include his wife, Debra T. Houtchings; children, Marcas Houtchings (Melissa), Chantell Houtchings (Moe), Erin Desso (Rusty), Steven Houtchings (Donna), Julia Houtchings (Sarah) and Eric Houtchings; grandchildren, Taylor (Hannah), Marco (Christian), Lilli, Hannah, Harper, Sam, Quinn and Ansel; and a sister, Paula Dawkins (Junior).

He is preceded in death by his parents, Annie and Leon Houtchings.

A funeral service will be held at 3 o’clock on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC 29223. A visitation will be held from 1 until 3 o’clock at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, for family and friends to gather. Burial will take place at 2 o’clock on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that all donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to East Columbia Pentecostal Holiness Church, 1213 Hazelwood Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, in loving memory of Mr. Michael D. Houtchings.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

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