It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that Gulf Winds shares the news that our friend and longtime board member, Fred Houston passed away on Friday, May 26. Fred dedicated an incredible 58 years of his life as a passionate volunteer for Gulf Winds, leaving a profound mark on our organization, community, and the lives of our members. 

Fred was born in 1934, a few blocks from the Gulf Winds Garden Street Branch. Fred joined the Air Force at 17 after a small-town childhood in Pensacola and served in the medical corps from 1951-1955. Upon his return, Fred attended Pensacola Junior College. Fred finished classes and joined the team at the Chemstrand Plant in operations and later maintenance, where Gulf Winds was founded. Fred was encouraged by coworkers to run for the credit union’s Supervisory Committee and became the chair.

During his 58 years on the board, Fred served in the roles of Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Treasurer. He was named Board Emeritus in October 2022 and continued to offer guidance to the board based on his experience and expertise.

Houston joked that the credit union was his hobby and his social life outside of his three children and five grandchildren. Throughout decades of changes, he always believed in Gulf Winds. “As long as they continue to give personalized service to members and keep that in mind, they can’t go wrong. People were the power of our growth,” said Fred. We will deeply miss him and send our hearts out to his family.  

You can share your condolences and read Fred's obituary here.