John LaHam

John LaHam, 68, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from complications of ALS after being diagnosed earlier this year. John was born on August 1, 1958, to Quentin and Wilma LaHam. He grew up in Canada, where he was known as "Chip" by his immediate family. In his early twenties he moved to Texas to pursue his career and quickly made it his home. John built a rich community of family and friends and met the love of his life, Marsha, in Houston. The love John and Marsha had for each other was obvious to all. They shared an extraordinary ability to enjoy life to its fullest and share their joy with others. John had a beautiful, giving soul, and his life was defined by service to others. No job for family or friends was left undone, always completed quietly and with grace, with nothing expected in return. His commitment to volunteerism included more than 20 years of video ministry at First Presbyterian Church and 18 years of volunteer and Board of Directors service for his townhome community. John received a devastating diagnosis of ALS earlier this spring, after which he was wrapped in an outpouring of love from so many friends and family who were determined to spend as much time as possible with him – truly a testament to the deep love and devotion others felt for him. It will never feel like enough, but we are grateful for the time we had. John was happiest at Cayton Ranch where he lovingly cared for the local deer. He could often be found spending time outdoors wearing his Marquette cap and with a camera around his neck. He loved skiing, fishing, hiking, running, golfing, and a good hazy IPA. We will also remember his beaming smile, sense of humor, famous eggnog, and deep appreciation of ice cream. No one was a more devoted fan of Blue Bell Peaches & Homemade Vanilla ice cream! John is survived by his beloved wife, Marsha Cayton; his stepson, David Doctor (Aashika); his sister, Mary LaHam (Vikas Mukhi); brother, Bill LaHam (Lynn); nieces, Jessica LaHam (James Orr) and Claire LaHam (Tom Mountain); nephew, Jared Maness (Christy, Gracelyn, Addison); along with numerous extended family members and many dear friends. John was profoundly overjoyed to become a grandfather earlier this year and doted on his grandson, Roan. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, in Houston, with a celebration of life to follow on Saturday, September 19, 2026 in McDade, Texas. Those wishing to attend are invited to contact the family for additional details. Our family is grateful for the exceptional and compassionate care John received from many healthcare professionals, including Dr. James Orengo and the Baylor ALS clinic team; Dr. Danny Cheng; and the staff at the Baylor St. Luke’s CCU; as well as the support and love we received from many friends in John’s final days. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory to Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services, www.sevenacres.org/donate/, would be greatly appreciated.

John LaHam

August 1, 1958 - August 25, 2026