Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice J. Gorman Houston, Jr. passed away last week at 91.
Houston received his bachelor's degree from Auburn University and his juris doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law. He served as a law clerk for Chief Justice J. Ed Livingston and as a judge advocate in the United States Air Force. After practicing law in Eufaula for 25 years, he was appointed Associate Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court in 1985, elected to that position in 1986, and reelected in 1992 and 1998. On August 22, 2003, he assumed the position of Acting Chief Justice and served until June 22, 2004, when he resumed his position as Senior Associate Justice until his retirement in 2005.
"Justice Houston was a mentor to me and so many others. He was a paragon of integrity, courage and legal prowess. Alabama's judicial system gained so much from his leadership and selfless service when he served as acting chief justice when Chief Justice Moore was removed from office. He left a great legacy for lawyers and judges to emulate," Associate Justice Will Sellers told 1819 News in a statement.
A spokesperson for the United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama said on Monday, "The Middle District of Alabama mourns the recent death of our friend and neighbor, the Honorable Gorman Houston."
"Justice Houston served the citizens of Alabama for many years on the Alabama Supreme Court. In 2022, the Middle District of Alabama was honored to take the oral history of Justice Houston, and we invite you to join us in remembering the legacy and distinguished service of Justice Houston. We extend our deepest sympathy and well wishes to Mrs. Houston, her children, and grandchildren," the spokesperson added.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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