Raymond Higgins

Raymond J. "Buzz" Higgins, age 72, formerly of Youngstown, NY died Tuesday December 18, 2012 in Melbourne, FL after moving there just a few weeks ago. Buzz was born January 27, 1940 in Niagara Falls, NY, the son of the late Raymond and Esther Higgins. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1957 to 1959. For 25 years he worked as an Ironworker from Union Local # 9 in Niagara Falls. Buzz was responsible for the installation of the original Stadium Lights at the Wilson High School Football Field in 1979-80. He was also instrumental in the purchase and development of the Willowbrook Golf Course in Wrights Corners. He is survived by his children, Darin (Charlene) Higgins of Wilson, Sean (Wendy) Higgins of New Port Richey, FL, Shannon (Scott) Knox of Melbourne, FL, Joseph Higgins of Youngstown, and Kathleen Higgins of Grand Island; his grandchildren, Jennifer, Ryan, Rachel, Erin, Alex, Amanda, Chris, Cameron, Shane, and Isabel; his great grandchildren, Adelina, Aubrey, and Matthew; two sisters, Theresa Lopez of Niagara Falls and Debbie (Ted) Lopez of Wheatfield; and a brother, Bob (Claudia)Higgins of Niagara Falls. He was predeceased by a sister, Peggy Larratta. Raymond was buried on Thursday, December 27, in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 30, at 4:00 pm in the Bethesda Full Gospel Church, 6 Delaware St., Tonawanda, with the Rev. Sam Ciffa officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Health First Foundation, c/o Viera Hospital, 1350 S. Hickory St., Melbourne, FL 32901. Local arrangements are entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Rd. Ransomville, NY.