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Anna Fredina Higgins

July 18, 2017

 Peacefully passed away, surrounded by family at her residence in London, on Tuesday, July 18th, 2017, in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of Jim Higgins Sr. Dear mother of Don Higgins (deceased), Dave Higgins (Denise), Janet Spittal (Wayne), and Jim Higgins (Terri-Lee). Loving grandmother of Robbie Higgins, Rebeckah Lothian (Shaun), Amanda Hachkowski (Paul), James Spittal (Kara), Bryce Spittal, Jennifer Higgins, Alex Higgins, Nick Higgins (Jacyln), and Hannah Higgins. Great-grandmother to Bryar Higgins, Paige Higgins, J.J. Spittal, Elliot Higgins, and Liam Lothian, plus all the countless people who adopted Mom as their Mom or Grandmom. Predeceased by her parents, Robert and Ethel Rawding. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at peopleCare Oakcrossing for all their care and support. A private family service will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Anna are asked to consider the London Regional Cancer Program. 

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So sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom. Rich always shared such fond memories of growing up next door to the Higgins clan. He spoke fondly of your Mom and her "welcome all to her home". Condolences to everyone and take care of each other during this time of grief .

~ Susan Sheepwash

Growing up knowing all the Higgins' family was so much fun, and Anna was truly the matriarch of the family, and like a second mother to me. I am still very close to Janet, as I have gone to all her children's weddings and other family gatherings,and had visited Jim Sr and Anna in London when they moved,I know what the family is feeling this week over the loss of Anna, I remember going to Nova Scotia with them one year in 1969 and what a trip that was! Great memories. The door was always open at the Higgins' residence on Brock St. My sincere condolences to David, Janet & Jimmy and their families, and of course Jim Sr.,and I hope that the memories of Anna will help them through these difficult days, knowing that she is free from pain and now rest in peace. Never forget all the great times and memories that won't fade over the passage of time. Sincerely, with fond regards, Diane Judge

~ Diane (Rollins)Judge

So many fond memories of Mrs. Higgins "holding court" in the big, welcoming kitchen on Brock and Frontenac Streets. Janet and I, ironing our hair with newspaper and all of the boys "creating continuous, entertaining havoc." Mr. Higgins observed the hub of family activity, in his quiet manner. My sincerest sympathy to Mr. Higgins, David, Janet, Jimmy and families, in the loss of a hardworking Mother with compassion for all! Regards, Ann Wemp-Browne

~ Ann Wemp-Browne

Sorry to hear of the passing of your mother and wife, remember her standing on the porch on Clergy West always with a friendly greeting when we kids would pass by. condolences from the Payne family (old neighbors Division &Clergy West)

~ Dennis Payne

Higgins Family We would like to pass on to your entire family our deepest sympathies and condolences in the passing of your loving Mom / Grandmother. I personally had the opportunity to spend time with Anna on several different occasions - but especially enjoyed my lunch invitations as she would always ensure that I never left hungry. Mmm - Clam Chowder!! Truly a special lady whom will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this most difficult time. - Brett "Fritz" Willert and Family

~ Brett Willert

From my family to your family our deepest condolences in the passing of your loving Mother/grandmother. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. The Uytterlinde Family.

~ Mike Uytterlinde

To all of Anna's family Our thoughts are with you all at this very difficult time. It was our pleasure to have had the opportunity to know Anna for a very short time. The coincidence of Anna and our mother Amy being in the same residence was amazing. Finding out that they were born and brought up within approximately 10 miles of each other in Nova Scotia and they actually knew some of the same people gave them a lot to talk about. It was a great comfort to both. They shared a love of maple walnut ice cream and strawberries.Anna was a delight and showed great determination in her effort to knit for her new great grand-babies. We will miss her but we are also glad that her suffering is over. Our sincere sympathy, Amy, Janet and Doreen Frayle

~ Doreen Frayle

Our deepest condolences to you on your loss. When a loved one passes it is a difficult time, they are never gone and will always be with you. They are what made you the person you are. Concentrate on the good times you had and the memories you made over the years. Jim & Marg Fletcher

~ Jim Fletcher

ANNA FREDINA HIGGINS September 20, 1924 - July 18, 2017 When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me, I want no more tears in a gloom filled room Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little - But not for long And not with your head bowed low, Remember the love that we once shared, Miss me - But let me go! For this is a journey that we all must take, And each must go alone, It's all a part of the Master's plan, A step on the road called home. When you are lonely and sick at heart Go to the friends we know, And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds, Miss me but let me go. Author Unknown Anna Higgins September 20, 1924 - July 18, 2017 It is with dignity that Anne Higgins and as her wishes was taken sooner than later by the Good Lord at the age of 92 with her beloved family by her side. Born in Queens County Nova Scotia to Ethel and Robert Rawding Mom, was predeceased by her parents, brother Robert and son Don. Left to cherish her character and memories is her husband Jim of 67 years. Son, David and Denise Higgins and granddaughter Jennifer Higgins and grandson Alex Higgins and her dog Cooper. Don's son, Robert and great grand daughters. Daughter, Janet and Wayne Spittal and grandchildren Rebeckah and Shaun Lothian and great grandson Liam, Amanda and Paul Hachkowski, James and Kara Spittal and great grandson JJ and Bryce Spittal Son, Jim and Terri-Lee Higgins and grandchildren Nick and Jaclyn Higgins and great granddaughter Elliot and Hannah Higgins Mom grew up on a farm in Nova Scotia and when Dad came into her life she was excited to move, marry in 1950 and reside in Kingston Ontario. It was here they raised and supported the twins Dave, Don, Janet and Jim. Our Brock St. home was always full of friends and activity and many referred to her as mother too! Mom was employed with Queens University and Ongwanada Hospital until her well deserved retirement. Mom was a great baker and cook. Fresh cloverleaf buns, brown oatmeal bread, Boston brown bread, blueberry fungi, squares, cookies, stews, chowders, scalloped potatoes with ham and macaroni dishes were her specialties. Mom was her sons' sports broadcaster, referee, fan and cheerleader. Mom and Dad had the opportunity to enjoy their grandchildren in sports and recreation and tried to ensure she made it out to as many games as possible. Mom was an avid Blue Jay and Montreal Canadian fan. Sydney Crosby was a player she took special interest in due to his Nova Scotia roots. Everyone who was around Mom during a game knew they had to be quiet so she could focus, announce and cheer with excitement or express disappointment. As the family grew, married began their families Mom and Dad decided to moved to London to be closer to "the boys". Both Mom and Dad played an active part in all of our families lives through care giving, assisting with many home developments and by travelling to visit the Spittal family frequently and by travelling coast to coast with them. Mom knew that busy hands and mind were healthy for the mind body and spirit. As a lifelong learner she valued reading, word search, trying out new recipes, knitting, crocheting, quilting, travelling, country music, competitive TV programs, visits with family and friends in person, on the phone or through mail as well as. Mom was known as the supervisor, foreman, and coordinator. Mom loved to plan and would job designate tasks in order to check it off of her lists of things to do. Spring cleaning was almost a monthly event where she began with the closet, gave away or donated items no longer in use and made sure the home was spotless. As Moms health presented various issues and concerns throughout Moms latter years and her ability to travel wasn't possible. Family visits became more frequent for our families to make and her outings with them lifted her spirits. Dad had been instrumental in providing "Annie's" care for many years and when he was not able to manage they followed their commitment to move together into a seniors nursing home. Sons, Jim and Dave supported their independence along with all families until the move was evident. The experience for Mom drew out her strengths and she rekindled her interests in baking to fundraise for the nursing home with her daughter in law Terri Lee, knitting (knit and unravel) blankets and infant gifts for her great-grandchildren, crocheting dish cloths for those who would remember her with creative support especially from Denise and Beverly. Mom loved to shop at the gift store, learned to paint, played bingo (frequently won) and engage devoutly to exercise and botchy ball (she loved to win)! Mom really could put some of the professional players on her favorite teams to shame as she faithfully exercised, worked out with devotion and maintained skill! Mom valued many employees at People Care staff and especially making new friends. Thank you for the genuine TLC. When faced with adversity Mom did her best to keep everyone informed and always tried to manage to soldier through. Somehow the grandchildren, great grandchildren and Cooper were her highlights as each brought her spirits up! Calls and mail from JJ, Elliot's frequent visits as well as a recent visit from Rebeckah and Shaun their baby Liam enlightened her! Mom continued to stay connected with family and friends near and far on the phone and through mail. Recently many family members came to visit ... and she was so happy and certainly enjoyed her full house! It is difficult to say goodbye to someone who is so instrumental in our lives ... regardless of how close or far away we are! While we will try to obey and not cry for you ... it is through our tears that can find comfort in knowing that you don't have pain and are in peace and smile as your journey to connect with family and friends and Groover in the hereafter is where we will meet again. Thanks for all you have done for each of us and just like the cup you bought says GREATEST GREAT GRANDMOTHER! You are and so much more to each of us! You will be missed. God Bless!

~ janet Spittal

Sorry to hear of the loss of your mom. Sincere condolences from Susan and myself. Sounds like she had a good run at 93. Haven't seen you guys in a long time. Hope you're all doing well living in London.

~ Wayne Scott

To Jim Sr., Janet, David, Jimmy and all the Higgins families. Our deepest sympathies and love goes out to you all. Gosh! I am sure going to miss making my phone calls. I have always tried to get a laugh out of your Mom before I hang up. I am going to miss her. 65 years of friendship is hard to beat. Hope your Dad is doing OK. Take care Everybody and Love to you all. Janet, I am still going to make phone calls.

~ Muriel, Frayne Ralph

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