David passed away November 5, 2023, in Denver, Colo. He was born January 26, 1983, in Okmulgee.

David grew up in rural Morris. He loved animals and always had pets around him. His favorite sport was football, and his team was OU. When he could, he would call home to talk about the games. He felt compassion for all people whether family, friends, or strangers. He would do anything he could to help anyone in need. David enjoyed planning events on holidays with his family. He was a wonderful chef and prepared meals with an eye for detail. His sense of humor and personality made him the center of any room. David was a graduate of OSUIT Okmulgee.

David’s survivors include his mother and father, Gail and A.D. Ellis; 2nd dad, Jack Fuller; daughter, Isabella Stone; brother, Jed Hightower and wife Amy; sister, Angela Hightower and fiancé Arthur Harper; nieces, Byjou Vaughan and Devon Hightower; nephews, Keenan Hightower and Jayce Hightower and fiancé Jenny Salazar; cousins, Lori (Mizelle) Chrisman, Shelly (Mizelle) Foutz and Amanda (Cummings) Wiesman.

David’s precious dog Brownie, of 16 years, January 26, 1983 – November 5, 2023

passed away Friday, two days before David. They will rest at home in the family cemetery.

David fought the battle of drug addiction his entire adult life. The battle ended on that Sunday morning. The feelings David had during his life of sorrow, sadness, loneliness, anger and guilt were shared by his family along with him. The sorrow and guilt of “what more could I have done” will stay with his family for a long time, perhaps forever. Anyone with this crisis feels the same thing. Drug addiction and homelessness in our country is increasing every day. Now our beloved David is a number added to the statistics caused by this demon. The pain and grief is nearly unbearable.

No services are planned at this time. His family asks that any friend, acquaintance or stranger take just one moment to give a blessing and thought for David. He was so dearly loved.