Shirley Ann Higgins

Shirley Ann (Kirch) Higgins was born on December 27, 1939, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Jesse C. and Elizabeth Mae (Kahle) Kirch. She grew up in Kansas alongside her two brothers, Chuck and Jesse. She was a loving mother to her two sons, Chris and Cary, from a previous marriage. Her boys were an important part of her life, and she took pride in the family she built.

On July 3, 1982, Shirley married Harvey Dale Higgins in Mentone, California. The two shared a devoted partnership and were often seen together, especially while participating in activities at the Moose Club, an organization that became a meaningful part of their lives. Shirley gave generously of her time to the Moose Club, where she and Harvey were actively involved in numerous functions and events. Always willing to lend a helping hand, she volunteered by cooking, cleaning, facilitating bingo, and taking orders for dinners and breakfast events. Her dedication and willingness to serve others helped make these gatherings special for members and guests alike. Throughout her working life, Shirley demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on new responsibilities. She worked for Security Pacific Bank and, earlier in her career, cleaned houses and apartments. She eventually became the manager of the apartment complex where she and Harvey lived, taking on the responsibility of overseeing the property and helping maintain a welcoming place for its residents.

Shirley and Harvey moved to Oklahoma, returning to Harvey's roots and beginning a new chapter of their lives there. Together, they continued their journey, sharing the years and memories they had built throughout their life together. As the years passed, Shirley's health gradually declined. She passed away on October 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, hard work, and service to others. Whether caring for her loved ones, working hard to provide for her family, or volunteering her time at the Moose Club, she found ways to contribute and make a difference in the lives of those around her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Elizabeth Kirch and her beloved son, Chris Neas.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Harvey Higgins, one son, Cary Neas of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She also leaves two brothers, Chuck Kirch and wife Cathy of Kansas City, Missouri and Jesse Kirch and wife Jeanie of Branson, Missouri, one grandson, Adam Schmidt of Dallas, Texas, her nieces and nephews, Dana, Paula, Ronnie, Bobby, and Jennifer, along with many other friends and loved ones.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 9:30am at University Park Skilled Nursing Center Meeting Hall. A graveside service will follow on Friday, October 30, 2026 at 11:00am at Fort Gibson National Cemetery with Pastor Randy Rollins officiating. Her son, Cary Neas, will be serving as pallbearer and honorary pallbearers, Chuck Kirch and Jesse Kirch.