Gertrude Emma Higginbotham

EMMA GERTRUDE HIGGINBOTHAM Emma Gertrude (Gertie) Higginbotham, age 95, went to be with the Lord and her beloved husband, Art, on May 4, 2016. The youngest of eight children, Gertie was born in West Virginia to Roscoe Stanton Hall and Fay Bailey Hall. She was affectionately called “Tudie” by her brothers and sisters, since as a small child, this was her own pronunciation of her name. Gertie was married to the love of her life, Arthur (Art) Higginbotham in 1950, and resided much of her life in the Raytown, MO area. Gertie and Art were married 34 years until his death in 1984. She was baptized July 6, 1973, at Spring Valley Baptist Church, where she was actively involved for many years. She had many interests in her life including, cake decorating, candy making, dog training, sewing, gardening, becoming an artist, traveling, and golfing. She was a marvelous cook and loved preparing elegant gourmet meals for her friends and family. Whatever her endeavor, it was done with excellence! Gertie is survived by siblings Carmen Massey of Fountain Hills, Ariz., Clifton Hall of Roanoke, Va., and Ruth Whittaker of Fairless Hills, Pa. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. The family is especially grateful to Garden Terrace of Overland Park, for their excellent care in the last phase of her life. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2016, 11:30am, at Spring Valley Baptist Church, 8801 E. 79th St., Raytown, Mo., 64138. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to The Alzheimer’s Assoc., 3846 W. 75th St., Prairie Village, Kans., 66208; The Parkinson’s Foundation Heartland, 8900 State Line Rd., Suite 320, Leawood, Ks., 66206; or Garden Terrace of Overland Park, 7451 Switzer, Overland Park, Kans., 66214.