On March 26, 2024, Correctional Officer V Gerald Hightower II died due to complications from diabetes.  He was a long-time employee of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The Catastrophic Assistance Program was there to assist his family with funeral arrangements following his death. To his family, friends, and The Estelle Unit, we offer our deepest condolences. Learn more about Officer Hightower from his obituary below.

“Gerald Hightower II, 55, died on March 26, 2024. He was born on March 2, 1969 in Winnie, Texas to Gerald and Jeannie Hightower.

Survivors include his daughter Haley K. Hightower, mother Jeannie Hightower, father Gerald E. Hightower, sister Stephanie Peterson, brother-in-law Joseph Peterson and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Gerald aka Bubba was a 1987 graduate of Huntsville High School. He received multiple honors to include United States Achievement Academy National Award Winner and was voted President of the Huntsville High School FFA chapter his senior year. In 1988 Gerald joined the US Navy where he completed Basic training in San Diego, California and then went on to further training in Millington, Tennessee. In 1991 he graduated from RETS Electronic Institute as an Electronic Engineer. His last career was with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice where he had 25+ years of service.

Gerald’s greatest love was his daughter Haley. They had many adventures together listening to music and riding the beaches during Mardi Gras. Gerald was a car stereo lover and getting into his truck was the experience of a lifetime.

I have gone up yonder, I will be waiting on y’all…..”