Donald E. Higgins Jr.'s Obituary
Higgins, Jr., Donald E. passed to his eternal reward on Thursday, July 10, 2014, after a struggle against pancreatic cancer. Don was born in Hartshorne, OK, to Donald E. Higgins, Sr. and Veda Meek Higgins on March 5, 1926. He is survived by his wife, Betty Plunk Higgins; daughter, Suzanne Higgins Bowles, and husband, Ronald E. Bowles of Plano; brothers, Charles Higgins of Trenton, TX, and John Higgins of Garland, TX, and sister, Vera Pierson of Tool, TX. He also leaves behind loving nieces, nephews, many relations by marriage, and their families. A graduate of then Forest Avenue High School, Don earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Baylor University in 1950. He was a WWII veteran, receiving the Bronze Star for his service in the U.S. Army in Europe. After his return to Texas, he married Betty Jane Plunk in March of 1948. His work experience eventually took him into the Civil Service sector, spanning nearly 45 years in Dallas, Wichita Falls, New Orleans, and ultimately to FAA headquarters in Washington, D.C. After retirement, Don and Betty returned to the Dallas area in 1999, where they lived in Plano until his death. They were married for 66 years. Don was an active 33rd degree Mason and was a Grand Master in multiple lodges. He was a dedicated Christian, serving as deacon, teacher, church leader, and committee member throughout his adult life. He loved his family, fishing, crosswords and Louis L’Amour books. He was an avid storyteller and never met a stranger. His family and friends mourn his absence but celebrate his life. A visitation with the family is planned for Monday evening, July 14, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Restland Funeral Home. A graveside service with Masonic Honors will take place at 10:00 AM in the Wisdom Gardens section of Restland Cemetery on Tuesday, July 15, at 10:00 AM. His memorial service will be in Ellis Chapel, Park Cities Baptist Church, at 12:00 noon, located at 3933 Northwest Parkway, Dallas, TX, 75225. Friends and guests are invited to a reception in Ellis Parlor afterwards.
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