Daniel Matthew Hightower

Daniel Matthew Hightower, passed away on June 7th at the age of 83. He was born on September 12th, 1941 in Natchitoches Louisiana to Clyde and Polly Hightower. He spent his child hood growing up in the Spanish Lake community and later moved to Gretna Louisiana eventually returning to Natchitoches. A memorial service will be held on Saturday June 21st from 10 AM to 12 PM at Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home.

Daniel is preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Polly Hightower, brothers Charles Hightower and Alton Hightower, and sister Sybil Roberts.

He is survived by his sons Michael Hightower and Stephen Hightower, brother Frank Hightower, grandchildren Sean, Claire, Emma and Aaron, ex-wife Laurie Hightower Baker, and numerous nieces and nephews.

After serving in the US Army, Daniel returned to Louisiana and moved to New Orleans where he started working for the Jefferson Parish School board while he attended College at Tulane University where he earned his degree. Daniel spent his career working in the Information Technology field, working in many capacities over the years. He became the Data Processing Manager for Sally Beauty Supply Company and ended his career leading the IT department at Valley Electric Co-op in Natchitoches where he retired.

Daniel could often be found in his favorite recliner watching sports center, enjoying a good book or outside working on projects in his yard. He was a lifelong LSU and New Orleans Saints fan along with his Tulane Green Wave. He had a sweet tooth and always enjoyed a good snack, although he said he only kept them around for the grandkids.

As an avid history buff Daniel enjoyed reading a good historical book as well as having friendly debates with his sons about historical events. He enjoyed listening to a wide range of music, from 60s rock, soul, mow town, blues, Jazz, even enduring his son’s band practices. Affectionally known as “Dan the Man” to his sons many friends whom he considered his adopted children.

Daniel was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was active in the Kiwanis in Natchitoches for a while. He never liked seeing or knowing that a child was sick and was a frequent donor to St. Jude’s Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude's Hospital in his name.