Happy birthday to Verda Mae Houston! Born in Richlands, this centenarian lived in Kinston most of her life. 

Houston has spent a lifetime cooking for other people. “People would call on her to take food to other people,” said her granddaughter, Lisa Miller. Houston was famous for her cooking, including chicken and pastry as well as cakes and desserts.

Houston prized her independence, driving herself around until she was around 90. Her husband ran a discount furniture business in Kinston and she loved to rearrange her furniture. She always wanted husband Lemuel Houston to bring something new from his store. Houston’s husband was one of three men responsible for salvaging the CSS Neuse.

“She loved to travel,” said Miller. “She used to tell stories about traveling by horse and buggy.”

Houston was part of a group of Golden Girls in the Kinston area, but outlived the other members. On Saturday, a birthday bash was held for her where five generations of family celebrated the big event.