Marie "Janie" Hightower

Marie “Janie” Hightower, 90, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away on Saturday, December 1, 2018. She was born October 3, 1928 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to William Roy Reece and Lora Lorene Finney Reece.

Janie was a charter member of Wesley United Methodist Church of Fort Smith, Arkansas. She served on various committees through the years and was a member of Win-One Sunday School Class, Young at Heart Group, and United Methodist Women. Janie was a long-time member of KISMIF and volunteered at both St. Edwards “Mercy” Hospital and Sparks Hospital for many years. Janie earnestly loved her family and the simple things in life: puzzles, traveling, Hershey's kisses, balloons, and her stuffed dog, Goldie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Hoyle R. Hightower; a daughter, Elaine Heiner; two brothers, William Roy Reece, Jr. and Boyd E. Reece; and a sister, Helen Tankersley.

Survivors include two children, Hoyle Wayne Hightower and wife Priscilla, Carole Anne Craig and husband William; five grandchildren, Matthew and Gabriella Hightower, Chrissy Pergeson and husband Jason, Casey Craig and wife Sarah, and Carrie Anne Craig; one great-granddaughter, Bella Marie Pergeson; several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at Wesley United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas with burial to follow at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith. Visitation and viewing will be Monday, December 3rd from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home, 201 North 12th Street, Fort Smith, AR. 72901.

Memorials may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church, 2200 South Phoenix, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903.