Carroll Edward "Ed" Hightower

On Thursday, November 25, 2021, surrounded by his family at his home, Carroll Edward “Ed” Hightower, 93, departed his earthly vessel to be with his Savior and reunited with the love of his life, Madlyn Hightower. He will be remembered most as a devoted family man who counted his loving wife of 68 years, their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren as the highest treasures under the sun. He was born on October 26, 1928, in Lowndes County on land purchased in 1827 by his ancestor Henry H. Hightower. He passed away on a portion of that same ancestral land. Ed was the son of the late Carroll Smith Hightower and the late Lillie Moore Hightower, descendants of Lowndes County pioneer families. At the earliest of ages, a large family and farm life ingrained in him a hard work ethic and responsibility that he carried with him all of his life.
Ed maintained Honor Roll status all through his years of school, graduating from Valdosta High School in 1945. At the age of 17 he joined the Navy. He served honorably on the Destroyer USS George K Mackenzie in the North Atlantic. After the war he returned to Valdosta where he met the love of his life, Madlyn Joyce Peace and they were married on January 1, 1950. Ed loved Madlyn with a passion unsurpassed and always said she was the best thing that ever happened to him. Ed and Madlyn started their lives with modest means, making a pact that together with determination and perseverance they would make a better life for themselves and their family. He began his career with Automatic Sprinkler Company in Valdosta, Georgia traveling in Alabama and Mississippi before returning to Valdosta and working for Southern Railroad. He went on to work at Owens Illinois in Clyattville working his way up to a plant manager position. His many co-workers would attest that Ed was always willing to learn and always willing to work harder than anyone else. Whatever the job he worked hard at it. He knew the careful balance between versatility and commitment.
A role model to his family in all things good and honorable, courage, wisdom and compassion, he instilled a true sense of integrity and character in his children. The powerful example he set for his children laid the groundwork for them to succeed in their life experiences. He supported and was there for his family in all endeavors. Through the challenges he encountered in raising two children, going extremely above and beyond the call of duty with his full-time career and a burning desire and determination to support his family, even in his darkest hours of troubled times and sickness, his sweet, kind and upbeat demeanor never wavered. He was always more concerned with how his family members were doing than with himself, a true sign of outstanding character. He was a part of and the epitome of arguably the greatest generation ever in this country.
A true, loyal and faithful friend, Ed enjoyed fishing, storytelling and laughter.
Working on the farm as a child created his love for growing things. His favorite saying was “he who plants a seed in the sod truly believes in God.” An avid master gardener, he grew fresh vegetables for his family and kept an acre of Muscadine “you pick” orchard for 15 years. He loved the outdoors and could be found in his garden daily. Inside the home Ed loved to shell peas, crack pecans, repair household items and help Madlyn with honey do projects. He also loved to assist her with her many club projects and civic endeavors. Gifted with his hands he loved to tinker in his tool shop to try to save a dollar. With natural innovation he could build or repair almost anything.
Ed was a graduate of Georgia Florida Commercial College. A proud member of The Sons of Confederate Veterans; he was the recipient of the cross of military service and the Stonewall Jackson gold medal. He was a member of the Georgia Branch of the Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims and an honorary member of the American Legion Post 13. He was instrumental in forming the United Daughters of the Confederacy Captain James Monroe Briggs Chapter 2582. The chapter namesake was his ancestor James Monroe Briggs who died at the Battle of the Wilderness, son of Doctor Henry Briggs, one of the first two doctors in Lowndes County.
After Madlyn passed away in 2018, Ed longed to be with her in heaven. His beloved daughter in law, Brigitte unselfishly stepped in with compassion to serve and care for Ed. They formed a beautiful bond during his last years. When Brigitte needed help, an angel sent from heaven came in the form of Mrs. Debbie Johnson, a compassionate and knowledgeable caregiver. Other precious caregivers were Valeria Smith, Linda Jackson and Maxine Simmons.
Ed Hightower made it! There is no doubt that he is in the arms of Jesus and reunited with Madlyn in heaven for all eternity. “Well done, good and faithful servant; Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23. A life well lived, you are forever in our hearts, and we look forward to that glorious heavenly day when we are all together again. Your spirit will be forever treasured and greatly missed.
Survivors include his sons and daughters in law, Carroll Edward “Eddie” Hightower, Jr., and Rita of Valdosta, Benjamin “Ben” Smith Hightower and Brigitte of Valdosta; grandchildren, C. E. “Bucky” Hightower, III and Elizabeth of Greenville, North Carolina, Heather Davis and Clay of Valdosta, Briggs Hightower of Valdosta, Johnny Holcombe of Valdosta, Wayne Boseman and Gretchen of Aventon, North Carolina, Mark Boseman and Allyson of Red Oak, North Carolina; four great grandchildren, Graham Hightower, Jonah Hightower, Micah Boseman, Ricks Boseman; sisters, Aline Voltz of Valdosta, Ruth Smith (George) of Valdosta; brother, John Hightower (Mary Frances) of Valdosta; numerous nieces and nephews. Mr. Hightower was preceded in death by his wife, Madlyn Peace Hightower, brother, Benjamin Smith Hightower, sisters, Ida Lou Carter, Clyde Moore, Anna Pearl Nell and Catherine Cowart.
A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, November 28, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Sunset Hill Cemetery. Mr. Jerry Herring officiated. Powerful and inspiring eulogies and remarks were given by Ben Hightower, and Briggs Hightower. Heartfelt and loving words were also shared by Mrs. Debbie Johnson. Pallbearers who served were, Donnie Thomas, Gary Palmer, Lee Adkins, Stuart Moore, Buddy Moore, Pedro Mireles. Condolences may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home.