of Austin, TX
September 7, 1956 - March 25, 2019
David Stuart Highfill, 62, of Austin, Texas, passed away unexpectedly in a car accident. He had just had a glorious day on the golf course and was returning home.
David was born in Midland, Texas on September 7, 1956 to Mary Katherine and James Edwin Highfill. He was preceded in death by his cherished cousin, Pam Adkins. David is survived by his parents, Katherine and stepfather, Orvalle Sibert, James Edwin Highfill and his wife, Gwen, his beloved best friend and brother, Mark Highfill, stepbrothers, David Sibert (Marian), Michael Sibert, and a loving stepsister, Sarah. He also survived by his adoring aunts and uncle, Pat Frawley (John) and Reba Stoddard (Bud), Robert Highfill, and a plethora of cousins.
He was a graduate of NLR Northeast High School (Class of 75) and attended Austin Community College. David was the head bartender for the famous Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas for 38 years. He was also a skilled musician. As a drummer, he was a fixture on the Austin music scene for over 40 years, even playing in Europe. David, also known as ''Dave the Rave'', played with Stevie Ray Vaughn and once opened for blues singer, Toni Price.
At The Driskill Hotel, David was the ''Celebrity Bartender to the Celebrities''. People would flock to the bar to hear David regale them with stories. When the book, A History of the Driskill Hotel-The Grande Dame of Austin was published, there was a chapter devoted to David, where he was described as ''a mainstay of the hotel who helped bring life and good memories to thousands of customers.'' He was featured on an episode of ''The Best Bars in America'' and also appeared on the Travel Channel episode ''Austin'' and was interviewed by Samantha Brown.
David had a smile that could light up any room. He was a joyful person loved by everyone that met him. David loved to golf, fish, and travel. He especially loved traveling with his brother, surfing all through Latin America.
Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Monday, April 1, 2019 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, AR 72116. Entombment will be private. Memorial Services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at Park Hill Presbyterian Church, 3520 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, AR 72116.
Donations may be made to Park Hill Presbyterian Church or to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105.
Sign Guestbook
15 Condolence(s)
Beverly Ault
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Sorry to hear this Sad News Family, Much Love and Prayers,
Beverly Ault
Jenni Prange Boran
Tuesday, April 2, 2019
Rushing to find David at the Driskill was priority number one every time I visited Austin. He had the ability to make you feel like you were the only person in the room, quite a feat at the crowded Driskill Bar. A true gentleman. I am grateful to have known him, even if just a little bit. Much love to his family.
Kelley Martin
Tuesday, April 2, 2019
Remembering the first time I met David, how he made me smile and laugh. I’ll carry that memory always. I’m glad I had so many years with such a genuine soul. You will be missed my friend. Love and hugs to your family and other friends.
Stephen Bentley
Monday, April 1, 2019
David was such a nice kind person with that smile. I got to know him at SirLoin’s Inn and became friends for life. Our love for music was our bond. I visited with him not to long ago in Little Rock . He was in fine form. Dave keep on beating that drum in Rock N Roll Heaven!
Jacqulyn F Burgess
Monday, April 1, 2019
An extraodinary person, who will be deeply missed by many thousands. He had a charm and grace, a warm and welcoming manner that few people have. My prayers and love are flying to his family and friends.
Mary Grace McCullar
Monday, April 1, 2019
It's been a long time since I've seen David but I've often wondered about him. So very sorry to hear this tragic news. He was a delightful, witty guy. So sorry for his family's loss.
ralph lake
Monday, April 1, 2019
I will miss our MC rides and fun conversations. The best man with the beat! Ride on in heaven brother.
Ralph
Judith Stroope Forte
Sunday, March 31, 2019
So very sorry to hear of David’s passing.
David brosemer
Sunday, March 31, 2019
The best guy to give a little vent to, the best bartender. Never saw you rock the drums. But I'm sure up there your in place.
Tony Clarke
Sunday, March 31, 2019
I remember his smile, &since of humor . I know Mark is proud of his brother. And enjoyed playing music with him.
Sorry for your loss.....
Steve Elsner
Sunday, March 31, 2019
So saddened to hear of David’s passing. We were Monday morning golf partners. David was such an encourager and joy to play with. He will be missed as part of our foursome, but I am confident he is at peace in heaven.
Donna Schwandt
Sunday, March 31, 2019
So sad to hear of David's passing, especially heart broken for his brother Mark and family.
Rest in peace, David. I will always remember the good times we shared.
Love,
Donna
Elizabeth and Eddie Gutierrez
Sunday, March 31, 2019
Jack Clarke
Sunday, March 31, 2019
David and I spent many days together in High School.
And always were the Best of Friends
We will miss him
But always will remember and love our times together
Love to the Family
Jake Lagrone
Sunday, March 31, 2019
God bless in this time of deep loss