Teresa Marie Houghton, formerly Harper, maiden last name Addis, passed away on May 8, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family.

Terry was born on September 13, 1952, to John and Claudia Addis. She grew up in Freshwater and attended Freshwater School, then graduated from Eureka High School in 1970. She later studied at Frederick and Charles Beauty College. Afterward, she joined Simpson Timber Company in Korbel, among the first women hired there. While working there, she met and married Jody Harper. They were married for 17 years and lived in both McKinleyville and the Yuba City / Marysville area, where they raised their three children. After Jody passed away unexpectedly, Terry returned to Humboldt County to be near family. She later worked at Safeway in Eureka, where she met Albert Houghton. They were married on Oct. 23, 2004. After Albert retired, they moved back to Humboldt County, where they resided in Rio Dell and enjoyed being close to family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Claudia Addis, and grandson, Brandon White. Terry is survived by her husband Albert, brother Mike Addis (Jeanette) and sister Crystal Addis (John), daughter Nanette Dean, son Jody Harper (Fama), daughter Erin Holt (Brandon). She leaves behind nine grandchildren — Faith, Adrian, Kristen, Erika, Victoria, Megan, Jesse, Patience and Kincade — as well as 6 great-grandchildren, Lilly, Lyla, Grayson, Brantly, Banks and Brayden.

She was a woman of quiet strength and unwavering faith. Her life was a testament of resilience, kindness and the grace of God. Through every hardship, her faith in the Lord remained steadfast. She knew God carried her through life and she used that strength to pour love and compassion into others. Her heart was tender, forgiving and deeply rooted in love. She wanted the very best for everyone and longed for others to know the same faith and comfort in God that guided her throughout her life. Though small in stature, she filled every room. Her presence was magnetic. Whether she was baking goodies from scratch, tending to her garden, or spending time with her beloved dachshund Nina, she cared for everything and everyone with patience and devotion. Her strength, determination and caring spirit made her extraordinary. To many, she was not just important – she was their world. Her legacy of faith, love, resilience and kindness will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

The family plans to have a private celebration of life. If anyone feels inclined the family asks that donations be made on her behalf to California Cancer Crusher locally or to St. Jude to continue the fight for the cure.