BREWER – Iva Jean Higgins of 3 Floyd St. in Brewer, died June 18, 2005, at a Bangor hospital, while surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was born Dec. 31, 1928, in Madawaska, to William and Doris Coffin. She grew up in Dedham. She lived in the Bangor area all her life. She worked at City Hospital for 30 years as a nurse’s aide. She was married to George W. Higgins, March 13, 1947. She had nine children, 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was the quintessential Mother, Nana and Friend. She was a caregiver in so many ways all her life. She was humble, generous and had a beautiful loving spirit. She was a great judge of character, and you always knew where you stood with her. Her dedication to her family knew no bounds. She was always all about the children. One of her greatest loves was cooking. After a visit with Jean, your heart was lighter, but you were heavier. She was an avid reader; she loved doing needle work and traveling. She traveled to Jamaica, Mexico and Hawaii. She loved cruises and made regular trips to Florida and Tennessee to visit her children. She left behind many hand made items which will be cherished by her children. You could tell she was an incredible mother because when her children grew up they all claimed her as their best friend. It is impossible to capture this woman on paper, but those who knew her know this world has lost one of its best. She was predeceased by her husband, George, in 1989. She is survived by her nine children, George, Deborah, Michael, Millie-Jo, Nickolette, Joni, Daniel, Christopher and Juli; as well as her 17 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. A private service was held by the family June 21, 2005. If you wish to honor Jean’s memory, please make a donation to the Angus Houston Mountain Foundation, care of Baker, Newman & Noyes, Attn: Ellie Baker, 280 Fore St., P.O. Box 507, Portland, ME 04112-0507, which was established in 2004 in memory of one of her son-in-laws. Its mission is dedicated to helping children in need.
IVA JEAN HIGGINS
