Ethel Mary (Givens) Porter

Ethel Mary Porter was born on September 4, 1931, in Rayville, Louisiana, to Sammie Davis and Charlie Givens. She was one of five children, growing up surrounded by family, love, and strong values that would guide her throughout her life.

At an early age, she accepted Christ and was baptized at Mallou Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. Her faith was deeply rooted, and she carried a personal relationship with the Lord that remained a constant source of strength, peace, and guidance. She later attended and graduated from school in Houston, where she built the foundation for a life centered on family, service, and community.

Ethel was a devoted mother who gave birth to six children: John Hemphill, Patsy Hemphill, Vanessa Collier, James Wiley, Dale Alford, and Debra Givens. Her love only grew as her family expanded, and she was blessed with a host of grandchildren—Previn Hemphill, Hiawatha Collier, Billy Collier, Reginald Hemphill, Felton Hemphill, Tashon Alford, Keith Alford, Danielle Hemphill, John Hemphill Jr., Rodrick Hemphill, Kyle Martel, Jimishia Roberts—and many great-grandchildren. She cherished each of them deeply, pouring her love, wisdom, and warmth into every generation.

In 1975, Ethel made her home on Alvin Street, where she raised her children and built a life filled with memories. It was there that she met Johnnie Porter, the love of her life. They were united in marriage in August 2009 and shared a bond that lasted until his passing. Together, they created a home rooted in love, faith, and companionship.

Ethel was well known and dearly loved in her community. She dedicated over 40 years of service to the Houston Independent School District, volunteering at Fairchild Elementary School. To many, she was more than a volunteer—she was a guiding light, a comforting presence, and an honorary grandmother to countless children whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sammie Givens and Charlie Davis; her beloved husband, Johnnie Porter; her daughters, Vanessa Collier, Debra Givens, and Patsy Hemphill; and her son, James Wiley.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, John Hemphill, and her daughter, Dale Alford, along with a legacy of love that will forever live on in her family and all who knew her. Her presence will be deeply missed in the Robinson Edition neighborhood, where her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit left an everlasting mark.