Marilyn Hightower, 94, of Oskaloosa, passed away Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Oskaloosa Care Center in Oskaloosa.
Marilyn June Hightower, daughter of Hugh Howard and Marie Helen (Andeway) Shaw, was born June 18, 1932, in Oskaloosa. She was a 1950 graduate of Oskaloosa High School. She married Larry J. Hightower on Easter Sunday, April 13, 1952, when he was home on leave from the military. Their first home was at Pope Air Force Base, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After Larry completed his military duty, they returned to Oskaloosa to make their home. Marilyn worked at St. James Episcopal Church, the Department of Human Services, and finally for Vernie Well’s apartment complexes. She enjoyed each of these occupations and the people she served.
Her family includes her daughter, Rhonda Van Zante of Eddyville, and a son, Randy Hightower of Oskaloosa; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, four brothers and a sister, and a son-in-law, Loren Van Zante.
A Graveside Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Forest Cemetery. Please use the North 11th Street entrance to attend the service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter. Langkamp Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with Marilyn’s final arrangements.
