Susan Caldwell Higgins

On Monday, November 12, 2012, Susan Higgins went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Born 90 years ago on March 9, 1922, in the small low country town of Lodge, SC, Susan was the seventh of ten children. Raised on a working farm, she was known as the fastest cotton picker among the children. But Susan's passion was school, where she attended a one room schoolhouse; her farming father also serving as her teacher at various seasons. Along with her four sisters, Susan received a college degree. She earned her undergraduate degree from Winthrop College and her Masters of Library of Science from George Peabody College in Nashville, TN.

Susan was the consummate school librarian, serving exactly 60 years in this role at Queens College, Central Piedmont Community College, and Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. After she formally "retired" as a media specialist, she worked several days a week as a substitute teacher in CMS until an injury at age 82. She would often tell her family, "I do not know WHEN I have had such a wonderful day teaching. It was perfect."

Susan first began work as the librarian of the Winthrop Training School for teachers in Rock Hill, SC until she married Harper Thomas Higgins, Jr. Harper was a teacher at East Mecklenburg High School, bringing Susan to Charlotte, and converting her from Southern Baptist to Presbyterian, when she joined First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte. She has enjoyed her ladies circle, Sunday school classes and many wonderful friendships in her 58 years as a member of her uptown church home. Church member Karen MacKenzie has had an extra special relationship with Susan for years, joining her weekly for walks, dinners and movie nights.

When Susan moved to Aldersgate Retirement Home in 2006, it was like moving back into the college dorm for her. She flourished in the many activities and outings - even tai chi classes. Susan was the biggest fan of Activities Director, Brian Gardner. Her family is so grateful for the loving care she has received by all the staff of Parker Terrace, and recently at Asbury Care Center. We also appreciate the brilliant care of her cardiologist, Dr. David Framm.

We praise God for Susan Higgins and her example of a life so well-lived. Raised in the depression, Susan has modeled true character, enthusiastically serving others in a humble and joyful way. Most importantly, she has honored the Lord.

Susan is survived by her sister, May Caldwell Reid, of Darlington, SC, and by the youngest of her five brothers, Edwin "Buddy" Caldwell of New Ellentown, SC and his family.

Susan is best loved as "Grandma Sue" to the families of her three sons.

Eldest son, Harper Thomas (Tom) Higgins III of Charlotte, his wife, Cindy Green Higgins, and their two daughters, Claire and Ellie. Son David Scott Higgins of Scottsdale, AZ, David's son, John David Higgins and his fiancée, Emily Potter, both of Brentwood, TN. Youngest son, Robert Allen Higgins, DDS of Myrtle Beach, SC, his wife, Sonja Eubanks Higgins, and Robert's daughters, Avery Rose and Naomi. The family would like to extend special thanks to David's girlfriend, Danelle Drapievsky of Charlotte, for her kindness during the recent months.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Harry and Bryant at 500 Providence Road, 28207 in Myers Park. The family will welcome visitors here on Wednesday, November 14 from 6 until 8 p.m. The funeral service will be Thursday, November 15 at 1 p.m. at this same location.

In lieu of flowers, Susan would request donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church Television Ministry, 200 West Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28202 or to the Aldersgate Assistance Fund at 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215.