Fred Eldridge Higgins, 82, of Lexington, died peacefully Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, at his daughter’s home in Portsmouth.  He was born Jan. 3, 1941, in Rockbridge County.

He is survived by his former wife of 40 years, Betty; daughter, Karin Higgins Fix and son-in-law, Kim Fix; son, Dale; daughter, Rose; daughter, Cherice; and youngest son, Donnie; his 15 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren who owned his heart.  He also leaves behind a sister, Mildred Vaness; and brother, Richard Higgins.

Fred is preceded in death by his oldest son, J.R.; two sisters, Effie and Gin “Virginia,” alongside of his brothers, Ralph, Sammy, PeeWee (Junior), and former first wife, Winona Gilliam.  Also to be reunited with is parents, Goldie and Herman.

Fred loved to have a garden, take a ride out to the countryside, watch a good ole Western movie and eat a hot homemade biscuit with a lot of butter.

Until we meet again, as he always said, “Life goes on.” 

A graveside service was held Monday, Sept. 18, at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements were handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.