Robert Hignite

Robert “Doc” Eugene Hignite, age 82, of Gulfport, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023.

Bob, as he was known to all his family and friends, was born October 6, 1940, to Earl and Phyllis Hignite in Connersville, IN. Upon graduating from Indiana State University with a teaching degree in Education, he began teaching for the Indianapolis Public School District where he taught for 32 years. He was recognized as “Teacher of the Year” in 1991. He also attended Ball State where he received a degree in Psychology. Bob went on to receive his PhD in Marine Biology from the University of Southern California and taught this subject at UCLA.

One of Bob’s passions was scuba diving and he also loved to travel. He explored the world and made many memories, which he loved sharing with his family and friends. He traveled to many countries such as Egypt, Indonesia, and Polynesia where he used his photographic skills to take many stunning and breathtaking photos. He learned with remarkable people, such as Jacques Cousteau and Jean-Louis Michel. He went on to teach the sport he loved to others.

He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Eugene Hignite; and his mother Phyllis Hignite.

Bob is survived and missed by his loving wife Angela of 25 years; his children, Colonel Greg Hignite (Karla) of San Antonia, TX and, Cheyenne Toombs of Anderson, IN; he will be forever cherished and remembered by his brother, Jerry Hignite (Brenda) of Connersville, IN and their family; in-laws, Ronnie and Sharon Patten, Ronnie Patten (Melissa), and Rebecca Patten all of Pearl, MS; and his memory lives on in his nieces and nephews.

To honor Bob’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. His wishes were to spend eternity among the oceans of the world, so his ashes will be spread in the ocean at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please donate to a cause that was dear to Bob’s heart, Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Pennekampparkfriends.org

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.