Mr. Samuel "Sam" Hightower

Deacon Samuel Hightower, 89, of Heartland Manor Care; formerly of 1002 W. John H. Gwynn, Jr., Avenue, Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully at 11 am on Sunday, May 13, 2012 at Heartland Manor Care. Deacon Hightower was born on September 11, 1922 in Tucker, Arkansas to Frank and Gertrude (Giles) Hightower. At the age of 12, he was baptized at Clear Lake Baptist Church in England, Arkansas under the leadership of Pastor L. P. Patrick. He married Nettie Mae McCullum on October 2, 1948 and they shared 56 years of marriage until her death on June 21, 2004. Deacon Hightower was a decorated World War II Army Veteran serving from 1943 to 1946. His military assignment covered the European African Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign which included Normandy, Northern France and Rhineland where he earned three Bronze Stars and the good conduct medal. After his military service, Deacon Hightower married the love of his life; Nettie; they settled into their lives as pillars of the Peoria Community and became mentors to their son, nieces, nephews and others. Many will remember Deacon Hightower for his outstanding athletic abilities playing Softball for the Caterpillar Softball leagues. Deacon Hightower worked for Caterpillar, Inc., retiring in 1986 after over 47 years of service. He was a former member and Deacon at New Morning Star M.B. Church. He was a Charter member and Deacon at Prince of Peace M. B. Church where he faithfully served until his health failed. Deacon Hightower leaves to cherish his most precious memories his loving and devoted family which includes a son; Avery Hightower of Peoria; one brother, Aldridge (James Anna) Hightower of Peoria; one sister, Genora Hedrick of Peoria; one grandson, Marque Jackson of Houston, TX; a special niece, Genevieve (James) Howard of Normal, IL; a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and his Prince of Peace Church Family. He is also preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Alice Robinson and Verdie Hanson; five brothers, George Hightower, James Hightower, Frank Hightower, the Rev. Calvin Hightower and Willie Hightower. Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at his beloved church with a visitation one hour prior beginning at 9 am. Pastor Simon J. Holly, Jr., will officiate. Deacon Samuel Hightower will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens’ Field of Honors. Military Honors provided by the US Army. Family and friends will be received on Friday evening, May 18, 2012 at 1118 E. Wilson Avenue. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements.

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Mr. Samuel "Sam" Hightower

September 11, 1922 - May 13, 2012