Robert E. Hightower, lovingly known as “Bob” and “PopPop,” passed away peacefully at The Mariposa Hospice House, surrounded by compassionate care and the love of his family.

Born on January 24, 1936, in Durham, North Carolina, to the late Robert E. Hightower and Jessie Ola Puckett, Bob lived a life defined by service, adventure, resilience, and quiet strength. Throughout his life he called North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida home, embracing each chapter and the friendships it brought.

A proud United States Marine, Bob enlisted in August 1953, and was stationed at Pyongtack, Korea, in Squadron VMA-121, and continued his duty as a Crew Chief/Plane Captain. Bob eventually became the Crew Chief for the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel William H. Rankin. He returned from Korea to serve as a recruiter with the Aviation Reserve Outfit. He received his Honorable Discharge in August 1957. The values of honor, integrity, and service remained with him throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Bob attended college in Atlanta before beginning a long and successful career in sales throughout the Southeast. Settling in Charlotte, NC for a decade is where he met the mother of his daughters, Morgan and Wynn.

Following retirement, Bob fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to South Carolina, where he planted and cared for a 350-acre pine tree farm. The farm became more than land—it became a place of peace, lifelong friendships, family memories, and countless days spent with his beloved four-legged companion, Sugar Britches.

Later in life, Bob spent a year in Georgia with his brother before settling in Florida for his sister, Dorothy and dear friend Dorthy Barth. Never one to stop serving others, he volunteered with the Marine Corps League, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow Marines and continued to honor the Corps that had shaped so much of his life.

Of all the titles he held, his favorite was “PopPop.” He found his greatest joy in his family and especially treasured time with his grandsons.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Morgan Hightower (Byshee) and Wynn Dodd (Andrew); his beloved grandsons, Robert and Hugo Dodd; his brother, Norman; his nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Dorothy; and brother, Phil.

Bob will be remembered for his gentle nature, adventurous heart, unwavering sense of duty, and deep love for his family. Having lived a life of service, his legacy will live on in the stories shared, the values he instilled, and the family who will forever carry him in their hearts.

Semper Fidelis.

A service will be planned for October 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Marine Corps League, Bill Hughes Leatherneck Detachment 1240.

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.