James Ray “Jim” Huston, MBA, CPE, president and founder of J.R. Huston Enterprises
James R. “Jim” Huston, 75, of Grand Lake, CO, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at his home. Born September 30, 1949, in Chambersburg, PA, he was the son of the late James Richard Huston and Shirley Jean Shahbazian.
Jim attained the rank of Captain in the US Marine Corps and served from 1975-1983 as an Aviation Supply Officer. Jim was president and founder of J.R. Huston Enterprises and was a transformative figure in the green industry, dedicating his life to helping others succeed. As a Certified Professional Landscape Estimator – one of two such professionals in the world – he set a standard of excellence that inspired countless landscape, tree service, and irrigation contractors. His induction into the Green Industry Hall of Fame is a testament to his outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to his profession. Jim was an accomplished author writing several books for the landscaping and irrigation industry. He was also an avid hunter and enjoyed hosting friends, clients and relatives at his home for hunting trips. Jim was an accomplished theologian and devoted Christian and often shared his faith and the Gospel.
He is preceded in death by his eldest son, Uriah James Huston, and grandson, Gabriel Pessoa Huston. He is survived by his 2 sons, Samuel “Clay” Huston and Joshua Huston (wife Tiffany), grandchildren Jessica “Kari” Cavanah (wife Kirsten), Josephine Fuller, Liam Huston, Connor Huston-Fuller, Logan Huston, sisters Carol Keck and Susan “Sue” Witonis (husband John), and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in the Chapel of Thomas Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Rev. Dr. A. Robert Cook will officiate. Internment will follow in Parklawns Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, Saturday morning, in the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.
