Russel Eugene Higgins

Russel Eugene Higgins, 88, of Abilene, Texas, passed away on March 31, 2026, in Abilene, surrounded by many who loved him.

Russel was born on August 1, 1937, in Higgins Township, North Carolina, to Edd Carter Higgins and Mary Jane Duncan Higgins. He grew up working hard on his father's tobacco farm in the Smoky Mountains near Burnsville, North Carolina. There, he attended school and graduated from Claremont High School. On July 19, 1958, he married the love of his life, Amy von der Hoff, in Abilene, Texas, beginning a lifelong partnership built on devotion, faith, and family.

Russel proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force for 31 years, including service during the Vietnam War, retiring as a Command Chief. His military career reflected his strong sense of duty, leadership, and commitment to others. After his service, he continued to live a life grounded in faith and community. He was a longtime member of First Methodist Church of Abilene since 1977. He was an avid golfer, bird hunter and dog trainer. He was also highly involved with Disability Resources Inc (DRI) and Special Olympics.

Russel was known for his integrity, steady presence, snarky sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to both his family and his community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edd and Mary Jane Higgins; all of his siblings, Geneva Rodgers, Ruby Morehead, Lucille Profitt, Elizabeth Barwick, Charles Higgins, Marjorie Olsen, and Frances Millican; and his nephew, Jim Cox III.

Russel is survived by his beloved wife of over sixty-eight years, Amy, and their sweet dog, Dottie; his children, Russ and wife Sandy Higgins, Cynthia Spraberry, and Janet and husband Leon Giesecke. He was a proud grandfather to Amy and husband Scott Stoky, Hannah Higgins and husband Devon Purslow, Carter Higgins, James Ward, Connor Spraberry, Nat Giesecke, and Jared Giesecke and girlfriend Samantha.

He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Dylan, Kaylee, and Brock Stoky, Wiley Purslow, and one great-great-grandchild, Emery Stoky. He leaves behind 17 nieces and nephews, along with many great-nieces and great-nephews, and many dear friends, all of whom he loved deeply.

Russel will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a man of deep faith, and someone who fiercely loved his country. His quiet strength, kindness, and legacy of service will live on in all who knew him.

Pallbearers will be Jared Giesecke, Matthew Rusk, Peyton Rusk, Robert Millican, Josiah Gaither, and Jim Convertine.

A celebration of Russel's life will be held at The Hamil Family Funeral Home 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd on Sunday, April 12th, at 2:00 p.m., with Steve Patterson of First Methodist Church of Abilene officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday, April 11 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel located at 6449 Buffalo Gap Road.

Interment will be in the family memorial plot in his beloved North Carolina mountains. Memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse.

The family of Russel wishes to extend a special thanks to Dr. Padma Draksharam, M.D., for her tireless dedication and compassionate care throughout Russel's illness. The family also thanks the entire staff of Texas Oncology-you are simply the best. Memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse.

Memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse