Kayla D. Houghton

Kayla Donne “McDuck” “Cuppy Cake” Houghton of Marshall Michigan passed away on January 20, 2024 at the age of 34. Kayla was in the embrace of her children and watched over by her husband when she went. 

Kayla (Tanner) Houghton was born to Donald Tanner and Lisa Goudey in Munising, Michigan on December 15, 1989. Kayla graduated from Gwinn High School. Later, she made Marshall, Michigan, her home, where she and her husband Donald "Don" Houghton became integral parts of the community. Alongside her brother Thomas and sister-in-law Nikole, Kayla immersed herself in the Marshall Middle School Junior Cheer and enthusiastically attended her kids' games.

Kayla exuded passion, dedication, and strength, among numerous other admirable qualities. Her love was boundless, and her spirit unwavering. Unapologetically herself, she danced to the beat of her own drum, supporting her family wholeheartedly in all their endeavors. While a devoted fan of her family, she also embraced the role of the playful heckler, especially when it came to teasing Don. Kayla was known for her sweet tooth, with a particular fondness for warheads, earning her the endearing nickname "junk food junkie" from Nikole. She found joy in baking, favorites of the family included no-bakes and snickerdoodles, and her cooking prowess could easily feed an army.

Kayla enjoyed mystery books and crime TV. Partaking in arts and crafts, and puzzles with her children, she cherished the simple pleasures of life—music, darts, cards, and the beauty of living in the moment. Photography became a medium to capture precious moments with her family. Despite being an introvert outside her close circle, Kayla came alive with the ones she held dear. Her favorite place in the world was anywhere with her family. It didn’t matter where; she was happy to just sit in the sun and watch her family have fun. Kayla’s warmth extended to everyone, but those fortunate enough experienced the full spectrum of her love and authenticity.

The center of Kaylas universe were her children. Kayla always put her family first, most importantly the kids. She was always supportive with any challenges they faced. Kayla was patient when assisting with schoolwork. It was important to her to not give up after failing, and always try your best. Kayla never wanted to tear her kids down, only uplift them and encourage them to succeed. She wanted to be there for her kids with whatever time she could give. Her kids were the lights of her life. Even when they were teasing her with toys and screaming spiders to scare her, she loved them. 

Kayla’s love embraced all her family, leaving a profound mark on their hearts.  As they navigate the world the knowledge that Kayla’s love was never ending for her family. Her bright and colorful personality will live on with her family. She will be dearly missed. 

Kayla was preceded in death by her Maternal Grandmother, Cindy Hoy. She is survived by her loving Husband, Donald "Don"; Daughter, Dacoda Arvena-Leigh Houghton of Marshall, MI; Son, Bentley Aiden-Michael Houghton of Marshall, MI; Stepson, Camden Joseph Houghton of Marquette, MI; Three Brothers, Thomas (Nikole) Tanner of Marshall, MI, Josh (Amber) Tanner of Chatham, MI, Donald (Amanda) Tanner, Jr. of Gwinn, MI; Sister, Alexis Goudey of Gainesville, FL; Maternal Grandfather, Thomas Hoy, Sr. of Goetzville, MI; Paternal grandmother, Sandra Lopez of Tampa, FL.

The family will be holding a memorial luncheon later. 

Memorials can be made out to the family. Please visit https://kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.