Ilene Minette Hightower went to glory with the Lord on June 13, 2024. She was born on September 23, 1956 in Pittsburgh, PA to Margaret (Wright) Hightower and Alvin Hightower. As the daughter of a career Army soldier, she lived with her family near well known Army bases, including Fort Ord, California, Fort Knox, Kentucky and a few posts in Germany. Ilene graduated from Schenley High School, in Pittsburgh, PA. She attended Point Park College in theater design. Ilene worked a few concerts, setting the stage lighting, for Noel Paul Stookey [Peter, Paul and Mary] and his Christian band, Bodyworks. She spent a short time stage managing in small theaters in New York before returning to Pittsburgh. She took on many roles in her life including Paramedic (earning her certificate through Community College of Allegheny County), a Greyhound bus driver, and an Intake and Protective Services Coordinator for a state elder abuse hotline. Ilene was a committee member of the Allegheny County Republicans, as well as a state committee member. She recently served as Judge of Elections in her local precinct. Ilene sang alto in church choirs and in the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh. From an early age, she loved her dogs—poodles and chihuahuas. Years ago, she was an admiral in her Star Trek fan club, a bard in her Renaissance club and a wannabe motorcycle mama. She loved crafting silk flower arrangements, greeting cards, wreathes, jewelry and decorative boxes; Ilene was started a craft business called “Divine Inspirations.” Mostly, she loved and served her Lord, Jesus Christ. She is preceded in death by her baby brother, Alvin Brian Hightower (whom she adored) and her parents. She leaves behind several cousins, including her beloved cousin, Aleta Preer. She also leaves behind her godson, Wilson H. Dougherty, many dear close friends, several young adults (who fondly remember their babysitter) and her two doggy boys, Luke and Bo.
There will be a celebration of life ceremony Sunday, August 4, 2024 starting at 3 p.m. Please call for location.