Barbara Jean Hightower

Barbara Jean Hightower died Sept. 10, 2018 in the loving care of her family in Ringgold, Ga. She was 80. She is survived by her husband, Clifford C. Hightower Sr.; sons, Clifford C. Hightower Jr. and Terry Ray Hightower; daughters, Kay Owensby, and husband Larry, and Sharon Travis; stepson, Danny Hightower; stepdaughters, Julie Gilardi, Rosezitta Rathbone and Vonnie Shelton; grandchildren, Carolina Hightower, Kellen Hightower, Eric Lonas, Lance Travis, Rachel Logan Gulledge and Terrence Hightower; great grandchildren, Charles and River Garrett. Barbara was born in Maryville and grew up in Rocky Branch and Walland in Blount County. She was the descendent of a Cades Cove family. She had a love of music and a love of Elvis and gospel songs. Growing up a poor mountain girl, she didn't finish high school, but later earned her GED in her 50s and went onto create a successful business in antiquing. One friend described her as the “Queen of Antiquing.” She was a generous spirit who cared deeply for her children and grandchildren. Visitation will be at Smith Funeral & Cremation Services from 5 p.m. To 7 p.m. Thursday. The funeral services will be 2 p.m. at Smith Funeral & Cremation Services and burial will be 3 p.m. Friday at Grandview Cemetery. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Barbara Jean Hightower please visit our Sympathy Store.