WINTERPORT – Vianna L. Higgins, 80, died peacefully July 9, 2011, surrounded by her family at home. She was born Sept. 30, 1930, in Winterport, to Mattie (Downes) and Donald E. Nelson.
Vianna graduated from Winterport High in 1949. She went on to marry the love of her life, Leon in 1951 and they traveled the world together during his military career. Vianna was a Girl Scout leader and coached girls’ basketball. Vianna loved to be outdoors doing just about anything. She cherished her time with her family at the camp on Swan Lake and getting together for every holiday and event. She loved to read, play tennis, bowl and watch NASCAR. She really loved playing golf with Carsen and having him drive her around in her golf cart. She looked forward to the Friday night scrambles with her friends at Streamside Golf Course and her weekly card games with her poker pals. Whether you called her Mother, Nan or Nannie, Vianna, Vi or Viannie, to know her was to love her. Her positive attitude and warm smile could brighten any day. She was always the first one to help someone in need. She was the first person you called with good news and also the first person to call when the news was bad and you needed someone to make it better. She will truly be missed by many.
Vianna is survived by her daughter, Michelle Cross and husband, Gary; her granddaughter, Megan Greenlaw and husband, Buddy; her grandson, Garret Cross and his special friend, Janel; one great-grandson, Carsen Cross; her brother, Donald O. Nelson and his wife, Rita; and by her sister-in-law, Irma Nelson. She is also survived by several special nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her very special pals, Chloe, Bailie and Drake. Vianna was predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Leon F. Higgins; her parents, Mattie and Donald; her brother, Leroy; and her granddaughter, Kacy Lynn.
At Vianna’s request there will be no formal funeral services. Interment will be private at Oak Hill Cemetery, Winterport. Those who wish may make donations in her name to CancerCare of Maine, care of Healthcare Charities, P.O. Box 931, Bangor, ME 04402-0931. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through
www.hampdengilpatrick.com.