William "Billy" Worley High

Born on August 7th, 1945 in Raleigh to Louise Marshall High and Roy Ruffin High, Billy attended Needham Broughton High School and was on the 1961 State Championship football team. He was also named High School All-American his senior year in 1963 and was proud to be invited to the Shrine Bowl and the East West All-Star game. He continued his football career at the University of North Carolina where he met the love of his life and wife of 58 years, Jennie. His early business career brought him and his young wife to Kentucky, Buies Creek, NC, Virginia Beach, VA, and Memphis, TN before returning with three toddlers to Raleigh in 1971. He had a long esteemed career as a financial planner and remained in his hometown for the rest of his life.

Billy is survived by his wife, Jennifer Spencer High, his brother, Roy Shelton High, his children: Curtis Ruffin High, and Kelly High Trowbridge (Ken), his grandchildren: Caleb, Jacob, Rebecca High, Kody (Simmons), Sarah Ashley and Megan Trowbridge, Emma and Caroline High and numerous extended family including nephews, nieces,and cousins.

He is predeceased by his parents, and his son, Timothy Vaden High.

Known for his infectious smile and truly genuine, larger than life personality, Billy never met a stranger. He was a devoted husband, father and family man. He enjoyed playing golf with business associates and friends, as well as frequenting local Raleigh restaurants, where he loved spending time with staff, owners, and other habitual patrons across town. Although he loved his hometown he also enjoyed traveling. Going to Europe, especially Paris to enjoy art museums was a favorite pastime. He was a duplicate bridge player who achieved life master status. He is hugely missed by countless family and dear friends.

His Memorial Service is planned for Friday, August 25th at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home,1701 E Millbrook Rd, Raleigh, NC. Visitation is at 2pm and the Service is at 3pm.

If you wish, remembrances may be made in the form of contributions to St. Jude Research Hospital or to the Georgia Alzheimer’s Foundation. Information on memorial contributions is listed below.

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