Annette Hightower Fletcher was born on July 19, 1953, in Boston, GA, to Mr. Willie J. Hightower and Mrs. Beatrice Bell Hightower. From an early age, she demonstrated a love of learning and excelled in her studies in the Thomas County school system. She was a proud honor graduate of Central High School in the Class of 1971.

Annette accepted her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at a young age at New Zion Church of God in Unity. This early foundation of faith remained an important part of her life. Her devotion to God was exemplified in how she loved, served, and cared for others. She faithfully served at Westside Church of Christ under the leadership of Minister Walter Marria and recently at the House of Deliverance under Pastor Ronnie Frazier. She served as an usher, on the church’s kitchen committee and embraced a special home-based ministry of preparing meals for families and friends. Her service extended far beyond assigned duties; it was a genuine expression of her love for God and His people.

Annette had a special “green thumb” when caring for plants. However, cooking was one of her greatest joys and one of the most meaningful ways she cared for others. She loved preparing delicious meals, gathering people around the table, and making sure everyone was well fed. For her, cooking was never simply about food; it was love made visible. Every meal she prepared reflected her kindness, generosity, and nurturing spirit.

Above all, Annette loved her family unconditionally. Her devotion to them was steadfast, sincere, and without limits. She nurtured those she loved through her prayers, her presence, her wisdom, and, of course, her cooking. Her home and her heart were places of comfort, nourishment, and belonging.

She leaves a legacy of love to her daughter, Courtney (Brandon Smith), and her beloved grandchildren, Jaylin Nichols and Calliope Smith; brothers, Willie J. Hightower, Jr., Jimmie Hightower, and Michael Hightower, Sr.; a devoted sister-in-law, Jennifer H. Hightower; devoted friends, Rhunette Mosley and Gloria Raines; and a host of other family members who will carry forward the love, strength, faith, and cherished memories she gave so freely.

Annette was reunited in eternal peace with her parents, Willie J. Hightower and Beatrice Bell Hightower; and sisters, Irene Amons, Mary Elizabeth Grant, Ethel Grant, Annie Bell Hightower- Scrugg, and Reatha M. McRae.

She served God faithfully, loved her family completely, and nurtured countless lives through the gift of giving. She leaves a legacy of love, and her memory will forever remain a blessing in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.