Lela V. Higgins

Lela Viola Higgins, 96, our thoughtful, caring, faithful, and loving, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 22^nd, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at Vassar Comfort Care.

Lela was born on January 4^th, 1927, in Millington, oldest daughter of Norman & Ottilie (Petzold) Kurpsel. Baptized January 16^th, 1927, at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Lela was a life-long Millington resident. On August 25^th, 1946, she married the love of her life, Arnold Higgins, at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Together they celebrated 58 years of marriage before his passing in March 2005. They were blessed with three children: Darlene Higgins, Wayne Higgins, and Diane (Les) Maxson. Lela was a member of St. Paul Lutheran and Women in Mission (L.W.M.L), Millington-Arbela Historical Society, and a former member of Altar Guild. Lela was an accomplished seamstress and loved to sew clothing, quilts, and numerous alterations for many clients. Further, she was very thoughtful and loved to write notes and send cards to those she knew or those who needed an uplifting message. Above all, Lela loved her family and spending time with them.

She is forever loved by her daughters, Darlene Higgins, and Diane (Les) Maxson; daughter-in-law, Cathy Higgins; granddaughters: Leslee (Noel) Lloyd, Sarah (Daniel) Pobocik, Melissa (Anthony) Wagner, Amanda (Jeffrey) Boerneke; great-grandchildren: Brennan, Ryan, Lauren, Natalie, Lyla, Amelia, Luke, and Ben; sister, Lola (Roger) Wendt; nieces, nephews, extended family, and special friends Larry & Carol Kammer and family.

Lela is preceded in death by her husband, Arnold; son, Wayne Higgins (d. 1983); sisters, Vera (the late James) Kern and Edna (the late Ralph) Ferber.

Lela’s family will welcome guests to Hanlin Funeral Home – Millington from 1-7 p.m. on Friday, March 31^st, 2023. On Saturday, April 1^st, 2023, Lela will be taken to St. Paul Lutheran Church (4941 Center Street, Millington, MI 48746) for her 11 a.m. funeral service, Rev. Jim Bruner to preside; additional visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Afterwards, Lela will be laid to rest next to her husband, Arnold, in Millington Township Cemetery, Millington.

Those desiring may direct donations to St. Paul Lutheran Church or Millington-Arbela Historical Society.

Share a memory of Lela at www.hanlinfuneralhome.com.

Lela and her family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home – Millington. 4823 W. Main Street, Millington, MI 48746. Phone (989) 871-4591.

HANLIN FUNERAL HOMES

Millington & Vassar

Serving Since 1928