Joseph Doric Higgins

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Mary Campbell Higgins; a sister, Evelyn Andrews Higgins Fender, a brother, Daryl M. Higgins; a brother-in-law, Roy L. Fender and sister-in-law, Gail McKinney.

He is survived by his son Joseph Scott Higgins, granddaughter Audrey Katelynn Higgins (Katie), a special niece Mary Catherine Campbell (Cathy) and several other nieces and nephews.

Joe was a Seaman First Class, V-6 USNR in the United States Navy during World War II. He was Honorably Discharged after serving 2 years. Following that he attended Virginia Tech, graduating with a degree in Engineering. Joe was employed by Appalachian Power Company for 48 years. He began his career with Appalachian as a lineman and retired as CEO of the company.

Joe was a long-time member of the Chatham Heights Baptist Church serving as a Deacon and on various committees. He was a Lions Club member for over 50 years where he served part of the time as District Governor. In addition, he was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Martinsville, serving as President from 1982-1983. Joe served on the Board of Directors for both the Martinsville Memorial Hospital (1989-1997) and Patrick Henry Community College. He also volunteered with United Way, Chamber of Commerce and Red Cross serving as Chairman for part of the time.

Joe was a humble man who loved his family and his community. With a calming demeanor, he believed in extending the olive branch and graciously accepting it from others.

A Graveside service will be held at Roselawn Burial Park on Friday, February 21 at 11:00AM. Reverend Dr. Michael Hatfield will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Chatham Heights Baptist Church; 1235 Chatham Heights Road, Martinsville, VA 24412-2121, Friends of Campbell County Animal Control; 322 Dennis Riddle Drive, Rustburg, VA 24588, or charity of your choice.

McKee-Stone Funeral Home is serving the family.