Calton "Cal" Roy Highfill

Calton Roy Highfill was born September 10, 1931, to Loy and Dora Highfill in Gravelly, Arkansas. He went to his heavenly home on September 8, 2024, two days before his 93rd birthday in Carrollton, TX, where he had lived for 53 years. Cal was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Leah Hogan (Bob), Sue Cheatham (David), Mary Sams; one brother, Dalton Highfill (Charlene); and one son, Danny Highfill. He is survived by his wife, Lucille (Lou), and three children, Janet Taylor (L.B.); Bette Mogg (Jim); Rick Highfill (Nan); five grandchildren, Amanda Chaney (Jon); Brandon Mogg (Rachel); Amy Mogg; Kyle Taylor (Jen); Harley Highfill; and four great-grandchildren, Kaylen, Kaison, Roman, and Tinsley. He is also survived by his brother, Billy Highfill (Joice), and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Cal was an astute leader, a savvy money manager, and a dedicated provider. His life was rooted in his faith in Jesus, his Lord and Savior, which provided him with strength and hope. He was a jack of all trades and a master of many, including accounting, sales, and carpentry. He was a talented handyman and helpful to those in need. If he did not know how to do it, he would figure it out. He never hesitated to jump into a project, big or small, whether plumbing, brick or tile laying, fencing, or any fix-it job around the house. Cal was an early adopter of technology and taught himself how to use computers and cell phones. Throughout his life, he diligently kept up with current events and tried to learn something new every day. Cal enjoyed organizing and planning yearly family vacations, and Lou would help by coordinating items like food and bedding. Lake Texoma was a Highfill family favorite when the grandkids were growing up, and they visited every summer for almost 15 years until it closed. South Padre Island was later added as a yearly staple and became a family favorite for over 20 years. Cal made all the travel arrangements and ensured his family arrived and returned safely. Cal's formative years were spent in Gravelly, AR. He graduated from Fourche Valley High School in 1949. After high school graduation, he first attended Draughon Business College in Arkansas. In 1950, Cal's father moved his family to Punkin Center, OK. Cal soon followed and attended Oklahoma School of Business, Accounting, Law, and Finance in Tulsa, OK. He soon graduated with an associate's degree in Business with a major in Accounting. While attending college, Cal obtained a job at McKesson in downtown Tulsa. In April 1952, Cal married Lucille Skidmore. Cal and Lou's work ethic together was unyielding. Soon after they married, Lou's parents gave them a small piece of farmland in Tulsa. Cal began building the family home with help from his father, Lou's parents and uncle, and church friends. Cal routinely woke up at 4:30 a.m. to work on the construction of the house before heading off to work at McKesson. He held many positions in the company, including Regional Manager of the Southeastern US. In 1971, McKesson transferred his job to Dallas, where he retired in June 1993 after 44 years of employment. After he retired, he was a financial consultant for three years with a specialized pharmacy. Soon after, Cal and Lou began working alongside their son, Rick, in his construction business for many years. During retirement, he enjoyed playing golf and many church sponsored activities and trips. Cal and Lou raised four children while money was scarce and times were hard. Farming, gardening, and church occupied their days. Each morning, Cal would get up at 5:30 a.m. to milk the cow and feed the herd before heading to work. Cal also helped Lou's parents on evenings and weekends by taking care of their farm. They hauled hay, moved cattle from one pasture to another, and took care of all the farming duties. Cal accepted Jesus as his savior at the Free Will Baptist Church in Waldron, AR, when he was 14 years old. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Carrollton (now known as First Baptist Church At The Fields). As part of the Friendship House outreach ministry, he picked up and delivered bread for many years, where he was known as the "Bread Man". Cal's legacy will live on through his family, which he generously supported throughout his lifetime. Family ties, a strong relationship with Christ, and a love for helping others were the foundation on which Cal built his life. The family planned vacations, holidays, birthdays, and many special events hosted by Cal and Lou. These will always be cherished by everyone. His love and dedication to our family will be remembered and missed by all.

Tributes

Calton "Cal" Roy Highfill

September 10, 1931 - September 8, 2024