12/30/2025
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of H. J. High’s Chairman, Steven High.
Steve was a pillar of the Central Florida community for more than six decades and played an instrumental role in shaping the region through the construction of some of its most iconic buildings. He took over H. J. High in 1968 after the passing of his father, Harlem “Johnny” High. Building on his father’s vision, he led the company with honesty, integrity, and empathy.
Steve didn’t just believe in an open-door policy — he lived it. In fact, he had no door on his office. He welcomed anyone to sit down, talk, and have a meaningful conversation. With his calm demeanor and candor, he helped build a true family culture at H. J. High — one that his son, Robert, proudly carries forward today.
Those who knew Steve will remember his humility, kindness, and generosity, always paired with just the right touch of tongue-in-cheek humor. He had a gift for seeing the humanity in people and lived in a way that inspired others to do the same. He was a man of great faith, he allowed that faith to guide both his business and personal life.
Steve was part of a generation of builders in Central Florida that truly was a different breed. A true builder with an unparalleled work ethic and a focus on the details of each project. Buddy Eidel, founder of Tri-City Electrical, described Steve as “Demanding and tough, but always fair … a steadfast businessman, father, husband, citizen, and friend.” Many colleagues in our industry would certainly agree.
Steve will be deeply missed, and we are grateful to have been able to share in his remarkable life.
Steve’s Funeral will be this Saturday, January 3, at 11:00 am at Discovery Church on Sand Lake Road.
Discovery Church Sand Lake Campus
881 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809
You can view Steve’s obituary at the following link:
https://www.legacy.com/legacy/steve-high?ttm_pid=210555661&ttm_affiliate=legacyremembers&ttm_affiliatetype=standard&ttm_campaign=legacy