Mary Katherine Hightower Katie Walker

Mary Katherine “Katie” Walker died suddenly and unexpectedly on January 23, 2019 at her home in Odessa, Florida. Katie was 52 years old and shared her life, love and friendship with her beloved husband Doug Walker and their three daughters; Alex, Kaycee and Sammy. Katie enjoyed reading, bird watching, gardening and supporting her family’s interests.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at Platt’s Crawford Avenue Chapel. Interment to follow at Westover Memorial Park.

Born in Augusta, Georgia to Dr. James O. Hightower Jr. and Sarah Anne Owen Hightower, she grew up as an Air Force “brat” who traveled and lived throughout the country. After her father’s retirement from the military the Hightower family resided in Aiken, South Carolina where she graduated from Aiken High School. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina - Aiken and her Master’s Degree in Psychology from Augusta University. While at USC – Aiken, Katie met her “forever” husband and soulmate Doug in 1983 and were married for 30 years.

In addition to her immediate family, Katie is survived by her siblings; Steve Hightower (Tammy), Karen Uhle (Mark), Trudy Voltz (Warren), Greg Hightower (Dawn), Bea Hightower (Art Aiken) and 12 nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for all the kindness, support and compassion shown from Alex’s fiancé Keaton Reinhart, extended family, friends and co-workers.

Both Katie and Doug were passionate to assist in the cause to fight Juvenile Diabetes to support family members and others that continue to fight and one day find a cure. In Lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association (JDRF) @ JDRF.org or mail to JDRF 26 Broadway, 14th floor New York, New York 10004. 212-785-9595.

Heaven gained a beautiful angel this week, Katie was loved and cherished by everyone and will be missed dearly by all that knew her.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening, February 1, 2019 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM.