James Joseph Higgins

James (Jim) Joseph Higgins was born on November 10, 1943, at Lake Merritt Hospital in Oakland, CA, to John Leo Higgins and Roseanna (Hendricks). He came from a large family with ten children. He passed away November 14, 2015, at Cottage in the Meadow in Yakima, WA, with family members close to his side.

Jim grew up on a cattle ranch, in California, where he enjoyed playing football, hunting and fishing. He graduated from Chico High School in 1962. He hauled hay and drove milk trucks which was the start of his truck driving career. He married Della Mae (Killion), in 1971, and gained five step-children: Greg A. Hanson, Stan D. Hanson, Brenda L. Phares, Pam M. Maes and Helen R. McGrath. After their divorce, Jim kept a lifelong relationship with everyone.

On August 27, 1984, he married Cecelia Rose (Render). His family grew to include his new 13 year old step-son, Adrian M. Culham. They all enjoyed the simple life of outdoors, friends, BBQ’s, and recently celebrated their 31st anniversary.

Preceding his death were his brothers, Leo Higgins and Rule Higgins; his sisters, Delores Chipps, Mary Jane Saiz, and Lavinea Higgins. Surviving their brother is Lola Mae Trosper of Nebraska, Henry Lampley of Orland, CA, and Ernie Lee Higgins of Yakima, WA, along with his children Chris, Lee-Anne, and Jennifer.

Jim simply adored his children of both families. He loved them unconditionally, in spite of the many trials every family goes through. As time went by, his family grew to include 20 grandchildren ranging in age from 43 years old to 10 months old. At the time of Jim’s passing, his family also included 46 great grandchildren and 6 great, great grandchildren. His love was unconditional… His wife Cecelia was his world… He cherished her and depended on her. His legacy lives on!

Visitation will be on Thursday and Friday, November 19 and 20, 2015 at Langevin El Paraíso Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 1 p.m. at Langevin El Paraíso Funeral Home with interment immediately following at West Hills Memorial Park. There will be a family style Celebration of Life BBQ potluck at their home following the services.

To share a memory of Jim, please visit www.lepfuneralhome.com.