Mary Ann Melton Hightower, age 83, of Pendleton, SC, passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Rainey Hospice House.

Born February 11, 1941, in Anderson, SC, she was a daughter of the late James Ralph Melton, Sr. and Carree Owens Melton. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Franklin Hightower.

Mary was a devout Christian and member of Six and Twenty Baptist Church. She loved her family, her church, and her flowers but most of all, she loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She worked in public service for 45 years; 1 year at Shriner's Hospital, 10 years at Anderson Memorial Hospital, 10 years at the Gerber plant, and 25 years at Clemson Downs.

She is survived by her daughters, Melissa Hightower, Sherry Hightower, and Renee Singleton; brother, James Melton, Jr.; sister, Janice Melton Looper; 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Six and Twenty Baptist Church with Rev. Doug Goss officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 12:00-1:30 pm.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to Six and Twenty Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 3701 Six and Twenty Rd., Pendleton, SC 29670.

The family will be at the home of Melissa Hightower.