Family History

Our Local

Honoring Our Past, Embracing Our Future

The Height Family Reunion is a treasured tradition that celebrates the legacy of Phoebe Height; Danny Pearl Height; Fred Height, Sr.; Lillie Bell Height; Malachi and Willie Mae Height; and Jimmy Height. Since the late 1970s, the reunion has served as a time of remembrance, unity, and love, bringing together generations to honor our family’s roots and create lasting bonds.

Family Lineage & Legacy

The Height family descends from a strong foundation of twelve siblings, consisting of nine daughters and three sons:
1. Chester Height
2. Royal C. Height
3. Lillie Mae Height
4. Johnnie Mae Height
5. Isabelle Height
6. Annie Mae Height
7. Catherine Height
8. Emma Jean Height
9. Bernice Height
10. Sarah Height
11. Willie Gene Height (Uncle Bobby)
12. Laura Height
The family’s origins are deeply tied to Cordele, Georgia, and McRae, Georgia, where their parents and grandparents established strong roots. Over time, family members migrated to Detroit, Michigan, and Dallas, Texas, seeking new opportunities and building new homes while maintaining their connection to one another.

The Beginning of the Family Reunion

The first Height Family Reunion was held in the late 1970s as a way to keep the family close despite their geographical distance. The initial gatherings took place in Georgia, the birthplace of our ancestors, allowing younger generations to connect with their heritage. These early reunions were filled with stories of our forefathers, traditional Southern cooking, gospel singing, and heartfelt fellowship.
Over the years, as the family continued to grow and relocate, the reunion expanded to other locations, including Detroit, Michigan; Dallas, Texas; Jacksonville, Florida; and Destin, Florida. No matter where we meet, the spirit of love, faith, and unity remains at the heart of every gathering.

Traditions & Reunion Highlights

Each Height Family Reunion is a time to celebrate, reflect, and strengthen family bonds. Some of our cherished traditions include:

  • Meet & Greet: A welcome event to reconnect and introduce new family members.
  • Historical Reflection: A moment to honor our ancestors and remember our family’s journey.
  • Family Banquet: A formal dinner celebrating our family’s legacy with music, testimonials, and special presentations.
  • Outdoor Activities: Picnics, beach gatherings, and sports to bring the family together in laughter and joy.
  • Spiritual Fellowship: A Sunday morning service or reflection to give thanks for the blessings of family.
  • T-Shirt Tradition: Each reunion features a custom-designed family T-shirt, symbolizing our unity.

Family Motto & Crest

Motto: “Honoring Our Past, Embracing Our Future.

  • Oak Tree: Symbolizing strength, deep roots, and longevity.
  • Torch: Representing wisdom, enlightenment, and passing down knowledge.
  • Circle of Hands: Emphasizing unity, love, and togetherness.
  • Open Bible: A tribute to the faith that has sustained our family through generations.

Continuing the Legacy

 The Height Family Reunion stands as a testament to the resilience, faith, and unity of our ancestors. As we continue this tradition, we remain committed to preserving our history, strengthening our family ties, and ensuring that future generations carry forward the love and values that define us.

With each reunion, we not only celebrate our past but also build bridges for the future.
We are the living legacy of those who came before us, and through us, their spirit will always live on.

“We are family. We are strong. We are the Height legacy.”