Mary Frances Hightower, 83, passed from this life on Sunday, July 7, 2024. She was born in New Waverly on August 15, 1940 to Edward and Mary Ann Tafelski Slott. She married the love of her life, Don D. "Buck" Hightower on August 12, 1961 and they shared 63 wonderful years together.

Mary Frances retired from a career in banking after 35 years, but she remained very involved in the community and generously supported many groups and organizations. Mary Frances loved to travel, and she and Buck visited numerous places, both in and outside of the U.S. through the years. She also loved to shop, and never passed up a trip to the mall or the opportunity to try a new restaurant.

Mary Frances is preceded in death by her parents and infant daughter, Donna Marie Hightower, as well as siblings Annie Mae Quinters, Doris Niederhofer, Lawrence Slott, John Thomas Slott and Paul Slott, and niece, Debbie Watson.

Mary Frances leaves behind her husband, Don D. "Buck" Hightower; five nieces, Linda Drake, Luan Shelly, Tommye Lynn Tomchissen, Jennifer Hudson and Paulette Carr; and great niece and nephews Lauren and Kyle Hudson and Cole Carr as well as a number of cousins.

We want to give a special thanks to her wonderful caregivers and staff at Harbor Hospice. In addition, we would like to thank all Mary's friends and family who visited her often during her illness.