Merle L. Hightree

Merle L. Hightree, age 86, of Puryear, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, May 22, 2025 with his family present. His body is to be cremated, with a private family celebration of life to be planned. Mr. Hightree was born September 27, 1938 in Hartford, Ohio to the late Merle Louis Hightree and the late Juanita F. Smith Hightree. He married Niramon Hanpichanchai Hightree on June 30, 1972 and she survives in Puryear. He is also survived by his daughter, Dawn R. Hightree of Puryear; granddaughter, Stella M. Jackson and great-granddaughter, Finley A. Jackson, both of Minneapolis, Minnesota; also survived by nephews, Darrell, Danny Lee, and Dale Hightree; several great nephews and great nieces; first cousins, Patsy Tomko of Pennsylvania, Ronnie Smith of Georgia, and Jerry Smith of Atoka, Tennessee. Besides his parents, Merle is also preceded in death by his brothers, Norman Lee Hightree and Clayton Louis Hightree. Mr. Hightree was a Catholic by faith. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving during Vietnam and retiring with 20 years of service. Merle was an awesome family man, and the most wonderful husband and father imaginable. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Merle, please visit our Tree Store.