Lela "Rainy" LaRaine Houghton

Lela LaRaine “Rainy” (Smith) Houghton, 97 of Ellendale, ND died October 10, 2021 at her home. She was born April 3, 1924 to Ole and Mae Ellen Smith in Forbes, ND. LaRaine was raised in the Ellendale and Monango area, graduating from Monango High School in 1942. She furthered her education at the State Normal and Industrial College, Ellendale earning her 2-year teaching certificate. She taught at various schools in the area. Rainy and her sister Verda owned and operated the Red Owl store in Monango, ND for 5 years. Later, Rainy returned to teaching school and June 17, 1955 she married Raymond Douglas Houghton. After marriage, Rainy began her daycare service which she did for 25 years while raising her family. LaRaine took a break from daycare working as a Librarian Aide at the Ellendale Highschool for 10 years. She then returned to being a daycare provider in her home until her mid 80’s. Doug died unexpectedly February 16, 1990. Rainy remained in her home living there for 63 years. She enjoyed reading and visiting with family and friends and spending time with grandchildren. Rainy loved all her family unconditionally. Always taking time to listen or spend time with them. She was loved dearly by her whole family. Her strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was evident by all. She was a member of St. Helena’s Catholic Church, Ellendale and was very active there. Grateful to have shared in her life are her four children: Vickie Houghton and husband, Jim Jensen, Chandler, AZ, Brent and Marlene Houghton, Ellendale, ND, Hope Houghton, Ellendale, ND, Susan and Mark Gruebele, Eureka, SD; 5 grandchildren: George (Rebecca), Nathan (Elizabeth), Brandi (Chase), Keith and Kris (Maegan); 8 great-grandchildren: Denita, Anika, Nadia, Cameron, Adelina, Margo, Jovi, Jemma; one brother: Gene Smith, Monango, ND, one sister-in-law: Alice Houghton, Aberdeen, SD and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, infant daughter, Lori Kay, infant sister Earlda, two brothers: Kenneth Smith, Kermit Smith and two sisters: Verda Knox and Shirley Maguire. The funeral is 10:30am Friday, October 15, 2021 at St. Helena’s Catholic Church, Ellendale with Father Patrick Parks officiating. Visitation is 3-6:30pm and prayer service at 5:30pm Thursday all at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Burial is at St. Helena’s Catholic Cemetery, Ellendale. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel.