On March 26, 1938, in Huntsville, TX, James Otis "Shilo" Hightower was born to Olen "Shug" Hightower and Ester Ross. Shilo was the oldest of 6 children.

Shilo attended school in Huntsville, TX, and shortly after married the love of his life, Gale Maxine Riles-Hightower, on January 25th, 1960. James and Gale became parents of five beautiful 5 children.

Shilo worked as an equipment operator for Walker County Pct 2, where he served for 25 years before he retired. After he retired, he continued to do farm work for his good friends Robert and Toni Bruner. Shilo was known for his kind heart, his strength, and his faith. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding horses, spending time with his family, and attending church at Greater Temple of Deliverance, where he later became a lifelong member.

On May 1st, Shilo was called home. Although he didn't want to leave his precious family, he knew that he would be reunited with loved ones who had gone on before.

He is preceded in death by his wife Gale, son Edward, 3 sisters, and 2 Brothers.

Those who are left behind to cherish memories are his 4 daughters, Linda Kelly, Judy Williams (Larry), Gale Hightower (Ronnie) and Galy Douch (Johnny) all of Huntsville, TX 1 sister Martha Hightower also of Huntsville, Tx, 10 grandchildren, a host of great-grands, a host of great-great grands, a loving niece Mary Lee and host of other family and friends.