Marjorie Higgins

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Marjorie J. Higgins, of Greenfield, Mo., passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 1st, 2023, following a short illness. She was born on March 30th, 1933, in Windsor, Ontario, to James and Margaret (Coll) Ross and grew up in Royal Oak, Mi. She was the baby of the family and the only girl, following the births of older brothers Ray, Bob and Joe. Her family was very supportive and she grew up independent and confident. 

She graduated from Royal Oak High School in 1951 and later attended Washington University in St. Louis. In 1952 she met a man named Kelly, and theirs was a whirlwind romance. They married soon afterwards and in time were the proud parents of four children.

Kelly became a naval officer and Marjorie met the challenges of being a military wife with pluck and determination. She was the glue and strength that held the family together thru the multiple moves that the Navy required, including to locations as far away as Adak, Alaska. 

Besides patiently caring for four busy children, Marjorie found time to volunteer for worthwhile causes, including the Red Cross. Eventually, in 1976, Kelly retired from the service and the family made the final move to Greenfield, Mo, where he served for many years as the Associate Circuit Court Judge.

After successfully raising her children, Marjorie was able to devote more time to a passion she had kindled since childhood; raising show-quality collies. She was a longtime member of the Collie Club of America and the Kansas City Collie Club. She was very good at it, making many friends along the way and raising multiple champions of the breed.

Marjorie had a big heart and was eager to help when anyone needed assistance. She was kind, smart and sweet with an optimistic personality that made people love to be around her. She is survived by her four children, Marcy Johnson, Mike Higgins (and Donna), Jim Higgins and Peggy Howard (and Alan). She loved spending time with her grandchildren, Chris Johnson, Ross Higgins, Brandon Johnson, Justin Higgins and Shannon (Higgins) Suprise and great-grandchildren too numerous to mention.

Marjorie will be dearly missed. She lived a good and long life. Those of us who were lucky enough to have had her in our lives should consider ourselves blessed.


The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Greenfield Funeral Chapel. Private family graveside services will be held at Greenfield Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri or to the Collie Health Foundation. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.