Joseph Doric Higgins
Joseph Doric Higgins (Joe), 98, of Martinsville, Virginia passed away February 15, 2025. Joe was born November 6, 1926, in Grayson County, Virginia to Joseph Earl Higgins and Ola Mary Andrews Higgins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Mary Campbell Higgins; a sister, Evelyn Andrews Higgins Fender, a brother, Daryl M. Higgins; a brother-in-law, Roy L. Fender and sister-in-law, Gail McKinney.
He is survived by his son Joseph Scott Higgins, granddaughter Audrey Katelynn Higgins (Katie), a special niece Mary Catherine Campbell (Cathy) and several other nieces and nephews.
Joe was a Seaman First Class, V-6 USNR in the United States Navy during World War II. He was Honorably Discharged after serving 2 years. Following that he attended Virginia Tech, graduating with a degree in Engineering. Joe was employed by Appalachian Power Company for 48. He began his career with Appalachian as a lineman and retired as CEO of the company.
Joe was a long-time member of the Chatham Heights Baptist Church serving as a Deacon and on various committees. He was a Lions Club member for over 50 years where he served part of the time as District Governor. In addition, he was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Martinsville, serving as President from 1982-1983. Joe served on the Board of Directors for both the Martinsville Memorial Hospital (1989-1997) and Patrick Henry Community College. He also volunteered with United Way, Chamber of Commerce and Red Cross serving as Chairman for part of the time.
Joe was a humble man who loved his family and his community. With a calming demeanor, he believed in extending the olive branch and graciously accepting it from others.
A Graveside service will be held at Roselawn Burial Park on Friday, February 21 at 11:00AM. Reverend Dr. Michael Hatfield will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Chatham Heights Baptist Church; 1235 Chatham Heights Road, Martinsville, VA 24412-2121, Friends of Campbell County Animal Control; 322 Dennis Riddle Drive, Rustburg, VA 24588, or charity of your choice.
McKee-Stone Funeral Home is serving the family.
