Hudson, Ohio - HUDSON, OHIO - Mary K. Higgins, 86, passed peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Nov. 15, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was the third of four children, born on Aug. 24, 1939 to Clifford and Katharine Smith in Oneonta. She and her family moved to Oneonta when she was a young girl, and she graduated from Oneonta Senior High School in 1957. In 1958, Mary married the love of her life, John H. Higgins and they raised their family in Oneonta. Mary spent 13 years working at the New York State Department of Labor.

Mary was filled with the Spirit of God, and was a humble, kind servant of Christ who dedicated her life to the Lord. Through the light of her life, she touched the lives of many, and through her example, she led her family to salvation. We know that Mary was greeted into the arms of Jesus when she departed this world, and was greeted by Carson, and her many family members. She was at peace in her final days knowing that Heaven awaited her.

One of Mary's special times in her life was the year she spent in St. Louis helping John caring for her grandchildren when Carson went to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis to receive treatment for cancer. She often remarked how in that year she saw the greatness of God like no other in her life.

Mary was an accomplished quilter who gifted her family with heirloom quality creations that will continue to provide them comfort and wonderful memories. One of her proudest accomplishments was an amazing memory quilt that she created for Carson, titled Carson's Journey, A God Story of Faith, Hope and Love.

Mary enriched the lives of her special friends with her quiet, kind and gentle presence both in Oneonta and Bradenton, Florida. She was so thankful for all the special times and blessings she received from them all. The family wants to thank you all for your love over the years.

In addition to her husband of 68 years, Mary is survived by her four children, Jackie Fong (Perry), Shelly McElroy (Rick), Bill Higgins and John Higgins, Jr. (Debbie). She also leaves to cherish her memory, eight grandchildren, Patrick and Caitlin Fong, Kristin and Brian McElroy, Brendon, Brett, Garrett, and Derek Higgins; two great-grandsons, Christopher and Bennett Higgins; sister, Grace Simmons (Steve) and a host of nieces and nephews.

Mary was predeceased by her siblings, Dick Smith and Barbara Mackey.

A private ceremony and burial will be held for Mary, and she will be interred at Ouleout Valley Cemetery in Franklin.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, those wishing to honor Mary's memory can do so by making a donation to support the legacy of Carson, to the Carson Strong Foundation at CarsonStrong.org

Arrangements are entrusted with Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta, NY; www.lhpfuneralhome.com