Higgins (Archibald), Helen June Sophia – Age 95 of Higginsville, passed away at home on November 8, 2019, with her family beside her. She was a daughter of the late Laurie and Margaret (Norton) Archibald and step-daughter of Jennie Warner Archibald of Higginsville.
Helen graduated from Higginsville School and later attended Maritime Business College in Halifax, where she received a Business Certificate as a secretary. She worked for several years in Dalhousie Public Health Clinic – Psychiatry Department. Helen married Gordon Higgins in 1946, six months after his return from the Second World War. Together they raised daughters, Wendy (Don Himelman), Dawn Doyle, Jeanne, and Melanie (Rob). She is also survived by grandchildren, Jeff (Jocelyne) Himelman, Sarah Himelman (Joel), Laura (Jason) LeClair, and J.J. (Stacy) Doyle; and great-grandchildren, Cassie Henderson, Kian Doyle and Ruari Doyle; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Gordon, in December 2015; son-in-law, Gerry Doyle, in July 2019; as well as brothers, Joseph, William; and sisters, Mary, Sadie, Jean and Edna.
Helen was an excellent cook and made family dinners special. She was a talented craftsperson and exhibited and judged at many provincial exhibitions. She was pleased to be chosen as Fair Person of the Year at the Halifax County Exhibition in 1994. She enjoyed growing vegetables, playing cards, dominoes and visits to the Casino. Helen was kind and caring, with a great sense of humour. She loved spending time with her family.
Thank you to Lynn Gillis (Palliative Care), and Sonya Parlee-Harder, Wanda, and Marina of the Continuing Care Team at Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital for helping make the journey easier. Special thanks to her niece, Cheryl Scott Dickie, for her care and support over this last difficult week. Gratitude also to Dr. Helika Adams and Joanne for the excellent care over the years.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A family graveside service will be held for Helen and Gordon in the summer of 2020 in Higginsville Cemetery.
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A life well lived is a precious gift
Of hope and strength and grace,
From someone who has made our world
A brighter, better place.
It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad
With smiles and sometimes tears,
With friendships formed and good times shared
And laughter through the years.
A life well lived is a legacy
Of joy, and pride, and pleasure,
A living, lasting memory
Our grateful hearts will treasure.
- Author Unknown
“Love You Forever Mom”