<strong>Alderson</strong>-Lyle Coleman “Coco” Highlander, 82, passed away on Monday, Apr. 15, 2019, at Raleigh General Hospital in Beckley. Born Sept. 30, 1936, in Alderson, he was the son of the late Joe and Blanche Highlander. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Delmore Highlander. Mr. Highlander worked at Simmons Building Specialties in Alderson for many years and later retired from the West Virginia Department of Highways. He graduated from Alderson High School in 1954 and served in the United States Army for two years. Mr. Highlander was a member of the Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church in Alderson, where he served as former chairman of the Official Board, was a former usher, and was a member of the United Methodist Men. He was a former member of the Alderson City Council and former President of Alderson Little League, where he was responsible for building the little league field at Alderson City Park, which was later named in his honor. Mr. Highlander was known as one of the finest football and basketball officials in Southern West Virginia and he was an avid fan of the West Virginia Mountaineers Sports teams. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Betty Smithson Highlander of Alderson; two sons, Jeffrey Highlander of Alderson and Thomas Highlander and wife Maria of McDonough, GA; three granddaughters, Yldamarie Highlander, Elizabeth Highlander and Addison Highlander all of McDonough, GA; two brothers, Joe Highlander, Jr. of Hampton, VA and Leonard Highlander of Roanoke, VA; two sisters, Dona Copenhaver and husband Ray of Woodbridge, VA and Leona Maynard of Newport News, VA; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Friday, Apr. 19, at 1 p.m. at the Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church, Alderson, with the Rev. Rick Duncan and Pastor David Highlander officiating. Burial will follow in the Alderson Cemetery, Alderson. Friends called Thursday evening, Apr. 18, at the Lobban Funeral Home, Alderson. Also, friends may call one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. Serving as pallbearers will be Sam Groves, Greg Holliday, Steve Keadle, Scott Pinnell, Steve Copenhaver and Neil McClung. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Walter “Bones” Baker. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the Highlander family at www.lobbanfh.com
