Herbert Hightower

HERBERT HIGHTOWER JR., whom was fondly known as “Uncle Herbie”, was born on March 14, 1955 in Boston, Massachusetts to loving parents, Herbert Hightower Sr. and Helen Coleman Hightower. He received his formal education in Boston. 

After high school, Herbert enlisted into the United States Army. There, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and was also decorated as an expert sharpshooter.

After receiving his Honorable Discharge, Herbert began working as a certified welder in San Francisco and eventually relocated to San Diego, making it his permanent residence. He began employment at a local shipyard and was also a member of the Ironworkers Union. He later began working in the Gaslamp District as part of downtown San Diego’s beautification project. He retired after twenty years of service and was invaluable to his profession.

Herbert was straightforward, outspoken, yet very compassionate and was noted as having a vast knowledge of history, sports and politics. He enjoyed learning, studying the bible and was always up for a game of chess or trivia. He also enjoyed music, especially listening to “Down To The Bone” jazz band. 

Herbert, whom had an enormous heart, enjoyed telling jokes and stories, always giving to others whenever he could and never liked to see any one down. He would literally give the shirt off his back for family, friends or anyone in need. 

Uncle Herbie felt very strongly about our youth and other family members learning family history, and for all to pass such knowledge to the next generation.  If He was here today, he would be overjoyed to see all the family together in one place, enjoying each other ‘s company while dancing, singing, eating and fellowshipping together.

Herbert was a devoted husband to his beautiful soul mate, Denise, loving father to his sons: Benjamin, Herbert III, and Richard, as well as a doting grandfather to his grandchildren, whom he spoke of to anyone with an ear.

On Tuesday, June 18, 2019, Herbert Hightower Jr. was called from earthly labor to eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of more than twenty years, Denise Hightower; his children: Benjamin, Herbert III, Richard, Shermaine and Tiffany; his brother, Frank Spicer (Gloria); his sister, Marsha Spicer; grandchildren: Taylor Rose, Hershey, Tiysha, Jayden; and Grace; two great-grandchildren, Zendaya and Lexiahna and a host of other relatives and many friends nationwide.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Herbert Hightower, please visit our floral store.