Shirley Marie Higbie, 84, of Ocala, FL went home to be with our Lord on Thursday, January 21, 2021. Shirley was born in Kirksville, Missouri on September 27, 1936. Shirley had a long full life. One filled with adventure, family, and a strong love of Christ.
Shirley was kind hearted. She enjoyed connecting with people, even at an early age. She knew no stranger. She also loved animals, especially little dogs, Shih Tzus. Shirley had several hobbies including sketching, jewelry making, beading, cross stitching & sewing. Shirley also Enjoyed roller skating.
She had several professions but being a writer and photographer (for magazines) was her favorite. Traveling cross country, interviewing people from all walks of life, brought years of adventure, purpose and amazing landscapes. She was one great story teller!
As life continued she discovered her faith. She studied fiercely and prayed everyday. She returned to Florida where she married Arthur G. Higbie and joined Oakcrest Baptist Church, and later joining their “Clowns for Christ”, where she loved teaching children about Jesus. Moving to Palm Gardens in 2018, she devoted her time connecting with everyone she met. She enjoyed Daily Bible Study and other activities with friends, family and staff. She is loved and will be dearly missed.
She’s survived by: brother: Dale Yadon; nieces: Heather Beustring, Shelly Long and Jolie Pinkston; nephews: Ben Yadon and Larry Pinkston Jr., her daughters: Dixie Martin and Claudia Setty (Troy), son: Mark Martin (Ronna), seven stepchildren; Dawn Geibel of Holiday, Fl., Michael Rigney of NY; Arthur D. Higbie (Marsha); Donna Watson (Cleave); Brenda Redd; Bret Higbie (Kathy); Robert Higbie all of Ocala, FL, 25 grandchildren and 38 great grandchildren.
Preceded in death by husbands: Richard E. Martin of Ohio, Peter Rigney of Virginia, and Arthur G. Higbie of Ocala, FL, sister: Mary Yadon; sons: Michael Martin and Richard Martin of Coleman, FL.
The family will be having a viewing Thursday, January 28, 2021 at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, 910 Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL from 6-8pm. Friends and family are welcome to attend. Funeral service will commence Friday at 10am at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, 352-629-7171. Burial will be on Monday, February 1, 2021 at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell at 11am. Precession leaves at 10am.