To call this man humble would be an understatement. To call him inspiring would probably embarrass him. But to say that he is deeply rooted in Christian beliefs would be the story of his life.
Joby Houghtaling is the oldest son of Jerry and Twyla Houghtaling of Artesia. When asked about his parents, he summed it up in a few brief but meaningful words; "I give all the credit to everything I have accomplished in life to my family. They brought me up in a loving Christian environment in a wonderful Christian town."
Houghtaling is the oldest of three brothers. Jeff and Ty Houghtaling are both coaches in the Artesia school system. When asked if he envies his brothers for the constant attention they received in the past and continue to receive in their present professions, Houghtaling only states, "I hate the spotlight, and no, I’m not envious. I am incredibly proud of them and for them as well."
Houghtaling graduated from Artesia High School in 1989.
He went on to gain a degree in Criminal Justice at West Texas A&M in 1993.
He married his high school sweetheart Pam while attending college.
"We have been married for 10 years. That may seem like a long time to some people, but it really isn’t when you’re married to your best friend," he said.
The Houghtalings have two adorable sons. Joshua is the oldest at eight years and Andrew is six. When asked to describe his families relationship in just one word, he didn’t have to think at all before he simply said, "Loving."
In September of 1999 the Houghtalings purchased Great Expectations Daycare which they have recently renamed Great Expectations Christian Daycare due to a change in curriculum from regular teaching to the implementation of prayer and Bible stories.
That in itself is quite a feat for such a young couple, but to add yet a little more drama to his already complex life Houghtaling recently decided to take a position at First National Bank. He is now not only co-owner of a lucrative business but is also in commercial lending as a credit analyst at First National Bank.
In his spare time, Houghtaling can be found on the softball field playing one of his many favorite sports, or in the middle of the politics that are affiliated with softball. This all happens due to the fact that he is the President of the Artesia Softball Association.
Along with this, Houghtaling is also a member of the Pecos Valley Baptist Association, where he serves on the Finance Committee. He has recently been appointed to this position in 2001 and will serve a three-year term.
Other extracurricular activities include being a member of the church choir, and the New Mexico Singing Churchmen.
He is the chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee and he is also an active member of the church council as well as being the Youth Director at Hermosa Drive Baptist Church.
In awe of the many different titles Houghtaling holds at his church he was asked what he plans to accomplish in the next few years with his church family.
"Right now we’re in the middle of a three-phase building renovation plan. We hope to be finished in that time frame and are always looking to bring more people to know Jesus," Houghtaling said.
When free time is available, Houghtaling also enjoys fishing, golfing, hunting and above all he enjoys spending time with his entire family. "Since my brothers and I were very young, we have always enjoyed playing music, sports and singing together."
Houghtaling explained what he uses as a basis for his everyday life. "As a Christian , I believe that everyone should live and work with integrity and should use all of their abilities to honor God."