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James Michael Huston, known to family and friends as Cleve, passed away on December 31, 2025, in Independence, Kentucky, at the age of 73. He was born on October 17, 1952, in Dayton, Ohio, to James Anthony Huston and Claudine Louise Huston (née Grainger).
Cleve is survived by his beloved wife, Rebecca “Becky” Huston (née Bowen); his sons, Rob Huston (wife Erin) of Villa Hills, KY, and Patrick Huston (wife Jennifer) of Covington, KY; and his cherished grandchildren—Bekah and Ro (children of Rob), and Levi Smith, Porter, and Amara (children of Patrick). He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Gray of Vandalia, OH, and her husband, John Gray. Cleve was preceded in death by his sister, Kathy Huston Clemens.
Cleve spent 39 years living in Lexington, KY where he worked for Valvoline and Safety Kleen before moving to Independence in 2023. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and golfing. Known for his sharp mind and sense of humor, Cleve was a skilled card player and, by his own admission, a less-than-successful sports gambler.
A visitation will be held at Linnemann Funeral Home at 30 Commonwealth Ave Erlanger, KY on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Burial will take place the next day, Friday January 9, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Ironton, OH. In lieu of flowers, family asks that you consider donating to St. Elizabeth Hospice.
Linnemann Funeral Home Erlanger
30 Commonwealth AvenueErlanger KY 41018
James “Cleve” Huston
Calvary Cemetery – Ironton, Ohio
Address: 824 Lorain St Ironton, Ohio 45638James “Cleve” Huston
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An amazing family!
I am so heartbroken for the entire family! Cleve was a presence that was undoubtedly a cornerstone for his boys, his beautiful wife and his gorgeous grandchildren and daughter in-laws! Praying for peace and great memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Cleve
Hi Becky, it’s Mark Buckel. I’m so sorry to hear about Cleve’s passing. My wife Julia and I send our condolences. I really enjoyed working with Cleve at Valvoline. He was the best boss I ever had. When something came up that we had to work through Cleve always had my back. When Jack Boehm was President of Valvoline after we had moved the headquarters to Lexington I’ll never forget Jack coming over to me one day after a meeting and telling me that Cleve and I were the best Accountants that Valvoline had ever had. That meant a lot coming from Mr. Boehm. I don’t know if Cleve ever mentioned Mr. Boehm’s comments but I just wanted to let you know. I regret that I lost track of you and Cleve over the last several years. My sister lives up in Northern Kentucky too so it would have been easy to touch base during one of those visits. I’m sorry but I won’t be able to attend the services later this week since I am recovering from a recent surgery. Let me know if there is anything I can do. My phone number is (859)494-2069. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Anyone for Salad?
I will never forget the love that was shown me by Cleve. He always had a way of making my day brighter. Every time I make a salad from scratch, I will think of Cleve. He will be greatly missed until we meet again.
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