SYLVESTER RALIEGH HOUSTON

Sylvester Raliegh Houston was born July 29, 1937, to Henry and Ellen (Rivers) Houston in Jacksonville, Florida. Mr. Houston served in the Air Force in 1957 and was honorably discharged in 1965. Following his service as a Personnel Tech and Vocational Advisor, he attended UCLA from 1969 to 1972 and continued to pursue his passion for education and leadership. He worked as the Associate Director of Western Management Development Center for nearly two decades before working at the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver from 1996 to 2014, though he worked as an adjunct professor both before and after. Teaching mostly public policy, business ethics and corporate social responsibility, Syl had a legion of students that he mentored and who became his lifelong friends. Syl was a remarkable person – always welcoming, engaging, and calm – a cherished friend and respected colleague. His impact is far reaching and ongoing, from his travels in teaching in such places as Albania, Africa and Taiwan (he wrote a book, "Recollections of My Times In Taiwan 2010-2017") to his named scholarship in which Mr. Houston endeavored to encourage and empower others to pursue their academic aims. 

Whether you called him "Syl," "Pops," "Uncle," or "Professor," he was always a friend, he was always a mentor and he always cared about others. He positively impacted so many lives. He lived a life of integrity, respect, and strength. He loved his family and friends, he loved to teach, and he loved to travel. He loved and was loved.

Our beloved Sylvester Raliegh Houston went to be with The Lord October 9, 2023 in Denver, Colorado.
Mr. Houston was predeceased by both parents; his former wife, Marjorie Hall; brothers: Arthur Houston, James Houston, Willie Houston, Sammie Houston, Winston Houston and Henry Houston Jr.; and sisters: Leslie (Houston) Cook and Fannie (Houston) Hardy. He leaves his son, Reginald Houston; daughter-in-law, Cindy Houston; step-grandchildren, Heather Montanye and Joshua Montanye; along with three step-great-grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces; and many friends and former students from all over the world.

We invite you to join us in honoring Mr. Houston at his funeral service in San Diego, CA or at his remembrance ceremony at the University of Denver which will be held at a later date. 

"The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you..."

~ B.B. King

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