Houston Longino
Delta State University mourns the loss of DSU retiree, Houston W. Longino, III, of Cleveland, Mississippi, who passed away on October 11, 2024. He was 80. The University flag will fly at half-staff today through sunset on Friday, October 18, in Mr. Longino’s honor
Houston Longino was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1944. After the call of duty, Houston served as a machinist in the Navy during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1971. Following his military career, he brought his expertise to several workplaces.
He obtained a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University in 1972, a testament to his dedication to education and lifelong learning. Houston cherished the knowledge and skills he gained during his studies, which he often shared with those around him.
Houston retired from Baxter Healthcare and then worked at Delta State University until his DSU retirement in 2010, where he served as Purchasing Supervisor in the Physical Plant.
Houston was not only a skilled professional but also a dedicated public servant. He was an active member of the Bolivar County Volunteer Fire Department Battalion I for 35 years, demonstrating his passion for helping others at every opportunity.
A visitation was held yesterday at Ray Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Delta Heights Memorial Gardens.
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As shown in the remembrances below, Mr. Longino was dedicated to his family, the community, and Delta State University, and we will miss him greatly.
Mr. Longino was a longtime customer of my store. I always enjoyed waiting on him and talking with him. Over the years I got to know him very well, and I will miss him greatly.–Mr. Wayne Britt, Owner, Britt Jewelry, Cleveland, MS
Anytime something needed doing, he did it. He shrunk from no blaze, no matter how hot. He held hands and told the dying that it would be ok as they slipped away. He stayed after every call for as long as it took to get back in service. He responded until his body failed him and then continued with encouraging words. He and Beverly were at every event. If you were sick or hurt, no matter what hospital, no matter how far, he would appear to tell you stupid jokes or war stories. He fought his illnesses as hard as he had the Vietnamese and the greatest blazes imaginable. Courageous, steadfast, generous, God fearing and loving. May we aspire to be a bit more like Houston. He was and shall forever embody our brotherhood.–Mr. Talbot Brooks, Director for the Interdisciplinary Center for Geospatial Information Technology/ Professor of Practice and Member of the Bolivar County Volunteer Fire Department
I worked at DSU for over 23 years, and I knew Houston Longino well. He was a dedicated worker and a friend to all who knew him. I worked for the Delta State Police Department and there were numerous times Houston assisted us with our radio communications systems. I always enjoyed talking with him. His contributions to the University and our community will surely be missed. –Chief Lynn Buford, Retiree, DSU Police Department
Whenever I saw Houston, he met me with a smile. He was always willing to help and ready for a conversation.–Mr. Chip Cooper, Retiree, Commercial Aviation
I remember that every time he stopped by the Housing office in Bailey Hall, he would first hit the hall door leading into the office and ask, “Are you awake in here?” He was such a likeable guy and worked so hard for the students and employees.–Ms. Mary Jane Ervin, Retiree, Housing & Residence Life
As a fellow staff member at Delta State, working with Houston was a pleasure. He was known as “Mr. Fix It”. Not only was he exceptionally good at his craft but he performed it with pride and a smile on his face. –Mrs. Vicki Fioranelli, Director Emeritus of Alumni Affairs
I saw him around campus and at activities. Houston was one of those who, when he spoke, people listened. Houston’s words were well thought out and yet he could be right to the point. He had such a wonderful smile and would always ask if I needed help with anything. What a polite and smart individual who loved DSU.–Ms. Ann Giger, Administrative Specialist Emeritus, President’s Office
The staff members of the Mexico Grill Cleveland honor and celebrate the life and legacy of our beloved patron turned family member, Houston Longino. Houston and his wife, Beverly, were with us throughout the construction of our Cleveland location. They were our first customers, and we have their signed bill framed at the entrance along with the plant they gifted us which grows around the fountain. Please keep his wife, family, and all who were blessed to know him in your prayers.–Ms. Christy Gonzalez, Co-Owner, Mexico Grill, Cleveland
Houston had a personality that was larger than life. He loved Delta State and loved his facilities management family even more.–Ms. Julie Jackson, Customer Service Manager, Facilities Management
He was a good friend for at least 30 years and a hard worker. He said what he meant and meant what he said. Straight shooter. Navy man. Fought Cancer a long time and didn’t complain. He had a good heart and loved this country.–Mr. James Marquis, Retiree, DSU Facilities Management
Houston worked in facilities, so he was in and out of the housing office all the time. I remember the first time I met him. I had not been working at DSU very long, and one day he walked in and hit the office door with his hand. It literally scared me because it was so loud. I believe this was his way of announcing himself! At the time, I had no idea who he was, but I soon found out! –Ms. Kay Saia, Program Manager for Housing Administration, Assignments, and Facilities, University Services
