of Houston, TX
February 27, 1930 - September 11, 2021
L. Gene Hightower, age 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 11, 2021. He was born on February 27, 1930 to Alice (Givens) and Thurman Hightower in Izard County, Arkansas. Gene grew up in Searcy, Arkansas and became a licensed pilot at age 16, the youngest ever in the entire state of Arkansas.
Gene met the love of his life, Delle, and together they went to Harding University. They married on June 26, 1948 and built a beautiful life together. Gene worked at Brown and Root, an engineering firm, where he retired after 30 years. He was a member of the AOPA, a 33 degree of Master Mason, and an Arabian Shriner. Gene and Delle attended Gardens Oaks Baptist Church for over 50 years.
Gene is survived by his wife of 73 years, Delle Hightower.
Friends are invited to visit with the family at 1 PM on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at Garden Oaks Baptist Church, 3206 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77018. The funeral service will follow at 2 PM. The service will be in the Fellowship Hall. Graveside and burial will be in Gum Springs Cemetery in Searcy, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to the Arabia Shriners 10510 Harwin Dr. Houston, TX 77036 or Garden Oaks Baptist Church 3206 N Shepherd Dr. Houston, TX 77018