Michael Devonne High passed away peacefully in his home on January 12, 2025, in Hixson, Tennessee with his wife Helen by his side.
He was born in Leadville, Colorado on Feb. 8, 1939, to parents, Robert and Bessie Mae High. He is preceded in death by his Daughter Jami Susan High.
He is survived by son, William Benton High (wife Jeanette), and sisters, Blanche Mauro and Glenda Wilson; two grandchildren, Joshua David High (wife Evy) and Kimberly Susan (husband Kenny Peters); eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He received a bachelor of science degree in Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering at Colorada University. He received master's and doctorate degrees from Oklahoma University.
He was first employed at Pratt and Whitney in West Palm Beach, Fl., where he was involved in the jet engine design of the SR-71 Blackhawk spy plane. He later relocated his family to Tullahoma, Tn., to assume various managerial roles at the Arnold Engineering and Development Center. He was involved in wind tunnel testing, "chicken gun" range testing and rocket engine testing. After AEDC, he held the position of director of Research and Development in Chattanooga, for the Tennessee Valley Association. He ended his career as an engineering professor at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga where he held the Chair of Excellence.
During his long career, served the community in many voluntary roles. He was a member of the Rotary Club.
Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com