Mary "Jean" Higgins

It is with sadness for our loss and gratitude for her life that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Mum and Nana, (Mary) Jean Eliza Higgins.    Jean was born in Duncan, B.C.  on June 22nd, 1925 to Mary and Bill McLean.   The family moved to Port Alberni when she was 2 years old and she lived there until she and her husband Wilf retired to Parksville in 1980.

Her years in Port Alberni were full ones, spent raising a big family, running family businesses, involvement with Knox Presbyterian Church and the local square dance club.  Jean and Wilf spent many happy times traveling and camping with family and friends.  As a third generation Vancouver Island resident, Jean was our family historian and was very engaged with preserving and passing on the history of Vancouver Island.   She was a long time member of the Parksville and District Historical Society and spent many happy hours volunteering there.  

Jean is survived by her children Dann (Debbie), Doug (Sharon), Judi Fisher, Barb (Grant) Smith, and Dianne (Simon) Collery and her brother Ross (Wanda) McLean.  She was predeceased by her husband Wilf, son-in-law Ted Fisher and daughter-in-law Jan Carnahan.   She was proud of her 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.  

Jean’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the compassionate care given to her by the staff at Qualicum Manor and The Gardens.   Her family will gather privately to celebrate her life.  If desired, donations in Jean’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.  

Mum was our family’s memory keeper and our memories of her will be forever in our hearts.