Glenn Hightower — the educator, coach, church and civic volunteer, and avid athlete — died on January 1, 2017.
Today — nearly a year later — friends and family members remembered him at one of his favorite spots. “06880” reader Tom Kretsch reports:
Despite frigid temperatures, a warm group gathered at the former Bedford Middle School on Riverside Avenue (now Saugatuck Elementary School).
They unveiled a plaque mounted on a bench along the track where Glenn spent many hours coaching, running and leading his school community.
(Photo/Tom Kretsch)
His daughters Heather, Holly and Julie were there with their families. After brief remarks by fellow runner Pat Kennedy, Holly read a poem — “Success,” often attributed to Emerson — that was always on Glenn’s desk.
Then — spontaneously — others spoke about personal experiences with Glenn as a runner, parent, colleague or friend. Heather led the group in singing “Amazing Grace,” followed by a prayer from United Methodist Church minister Ed Horne.
Now, as people visit PJ Romano Field to exercise or watch their children play, they will pass this simple bench with a wonderful tribute to a true community leader.
Heather, Julie and Holly Hightower, on their father’s bench.
I remember Dr Hightower well. Though I did a good mocking impression of him back in the day I till respected him for his unshakable integrity. So sorry to lose him and condolences to the family.
A fine man and a fitting tribute
Westport was so lucky to have him involved with our town.
A man who was blessed with so grace and dignity ! Thanks Dr . Hightower for every life you touched .
Dr. Hightower was a remarkable human being. He was equally smart as he was compassionate. Our family owes him a deep debt o gratitude for all of his good advice and kindness. He made Westport a better place. He’s missed a great deal by many. A truly well deserved tribute.
He was one of those people who was in the job he was meant to have so he could help everyone in his orbit. I will always be grateful that he wasn’t political — just dedicated to helping kids. He helped my daughter tremendously and I often think she wouold not be in the good place she is if he wasn’t the principal of her school.
Glenn and I met running a number of years ago and he remained such a good Westport A.C buddy over the years. He certainly deserves this honor as a lasting memorial to a true friend to so many. God bless him.
What a nice rememberance