10/05/2026
Today, River Bottom Ranch is mourning the loss of someone who was part of this land—and its story—long before we ever became a wedding venue. 🤍
Gerald “Hightower” Paxton was our family. And nearly 40 years ago, he was also the very first groom to be married here.
Long before River Bottom Ranch had a name, High married the love of his life beneath these trees, surrounded by family.
He would go on to live an extraordinary life—traveling the world, flying helicopters, collecting stories and friendships across continents, and always doing things entirely his own way.
Eventually, he found his way back home to the ranch.
Today, nearly four decades after these photographs were taken, we gathered beneath these same trees to celebrate his life and say goodbye.
One of High’s favorite lines was:
“Not all those who wander are lost.”
He wandered farther than most ever will.
And somehow, the road always led him home.
Fly high, Uncle High. 🤍
