ISABELL HIGGINS

Margaret Isabell Higgins, 99, of Buena Vista passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, at Shenandoah Valley Health & Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on March 16, 1927, Isabell was the cherished daughter of the late Kenneth and Beulah Chaplin. She lived a long and meaningful life centered on faith, family, hard work and service to her community.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James J. Higgins; her daughter, Sandra Higgins Claytor; her daughter-in-law, Margaret Susan Higgins; and her four sisters, Mildred Monaco, Ethel Mae Donald, Doris Ann Wheeler and Ruth Secrist.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted son, Kenneth Higgins, and his friend, Donna Breimann; her son-in-law, Michael Claytor; her grandchildren, Angie Claytor; Meredith Lantz (Terry); Nicole Setzer (Jason) and Chris Higgins (Tiffany); and her six treasured great-grandchildren Adam, Olivia,  Kamryn, Ryleigh, James and Carrolline. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Catherine Entsminger, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Isabell worked for many years as a cafeteria worker at Parry McCluer High School, where she was known for her kindness, dedication, and warm smile. She was a lifelong member of Buena Vista Presbyterian Church, faithfully serving her church family for many years as a chairman of the church circle. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she found immense joy in serving others. She was also a proud member of the American Legion Women's Auxiliary.

Those who knew Isabell will remember her gentle spirit, unwavering love for her family, and the quiet strength and grace with which she lived her life. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

A funeral service will be conducted on Monday, Aug. 3, at 2 p.m. in Buena Vista Presbyterian Church by the Rev. Bronwen Boswell. Interment will follow at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church, as well as following the graveside service in the Buena Vista Presbyterian Church fellowship hall. Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.