Bryan B. Hightower, 1926-2011

11-04-2011
Bryan Bedell Hightower, 84, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, in Fort Smith.

He was born Sept. 28, 1926, in Hartman to Bryan Elijah and Rachel Francis Cline Hightower. He was a retired controller for Armour Meat Co. and later W.R. Grace. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War.

A founder, charter member and teacher of the Win One Sunday School Class, he served as a leader of Wesley UMC Fort Smith. His civic activities included playing on the semipro South Fort Smith baseball team, The Smokers, coaching various Boys Club teams and being a member of the American Legion. He spent the last 10 years of life battling Parkinson’s disease.

He is survived by his wife, Iris Hightower of Fort Smith, a retired Deaconess in the United Methodist Church; two sons, Roger Hightower of Fayetteville and Daryl Hightower and his wife, Lisa, of Sheridan; and one granddaughter, Sarah Hightower of Little Rock. He was preceded in death by his brothers and sister, Hoyle, William and Francis.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011, at Wesley UMC with the Rev. Matthew Daniels officiating. Interment followed at the U.S. National Cemetery, Fort Smith.

Pallbearers were Rick, Steve, Hoyle Wayne, Bryan, and Richie Hightower and Jeff Harris. Honorary pallbearers were the Win One Sunday School Class and The Smokers Baseball Team.

Memorials may be made to Wesley UMC, 2200 Phoenix, Fort Smith, AR 72901, or to the Fort Smith Boys and Girls Club, 4905 North O Street, Fort Smith, AR 72904.