Funeral services for James F. “Jim” Higgins, 72, Lawrence, will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, with the Rev. Don Ogden officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery
Mr. Higgins died Wedneday, Nov. 9, 2011, at his home.
He was born Oct. 29, 1939, in Lawrence, the son of Ernest and Goldena Peters Higgins. He graduated from Lawrence High School, and later attended technical school.
Mr. Higgins was employed as a master plumber and pipefitter through the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union #441 for more than 50 years. He also volunteered at Topeka VA Hospice. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, and was an award-winning trap shooter, as well as an avid outdoorsman and gardener.
He married Betty Easley on Feb. 29, 1964, in Edwardsville. Four children were born to this union of 45 years. They later divorced.
Survivors include a son, Lonnie James Higgins and wife Sonya, Overland Park; three daughters, Amy L. Higgins, Cumming, Ga., Gail R. Shepherd and husband Brian, El Dorado, and Lorrie J. Butell and husband David, Lawrence; two brothers, Ray Higgins and Richard Higgins; three sisters, Bonnie Dankenbring, Jane Marconette, and Jean Peterson; and five grandchildren, Adam Shepherd, Derrick and Chandler Higgins, and Austin and Aaron Butell.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a twin brother, John.
Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, and from 9 a.m. until service time Saturday, where the family will receive friends from noon until service time Saturday.
The family suggests memorial contributions to Just Food, a food bank in Douglas County, in care of the funeral home, 601 Ind., Lawrence, KS, 66044
I knew Jim and Betty for many years and often saw and visited with them at the Kansas State Trapshoot. Both were good friends (and good shots). Jim Higgins was an outstanding union member. He always considered his fellow members in Local 763 and then 441 to truly be his brothers and sisters. He was old school and believe me that is a rare compliment in these times. I will miss Jim and his Union will miss his knowledge and loyalty. Betty and his entire family have my sincere condolence.
Joe Pucci
My prayers and thoughts are with you. Love always, Rachelle
Gail and family, I am so sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in your memories.
Gary and Andrea