Tributes paid to Clive (Higgi) Higginson, a popular Lurgan figure and huge Glenavon fan, who was a stalwart of the Royal British Legion
Tributes have been paid to Clive Higginson, an author, historian and lifelong Glenavon fan, who has passed away.
Mr Higginson, late of Pine Grove, Lurgan, died peacefully at hospital on Tuesday, October 20th surrounded by his loving family.
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His funeral will take place at Brownlow House on Friday October 23 at Noon followed by interment in Lurgan Cemetery.
He is deeply mourned by his dearly loved wife Diane, his children Neil and Ross, daughters-in-law Laura and Jenna, his sisters Tracy and Nicola and all his grandchildren.
Mr Higginson was a member of the Glenavon Triangle Supporters Club for 50 years and a lifelong fan of the club.
He was a stalwart of the Royal British Legion in Lurgan and worked hard to keep alive the memories of those who served.
Mr Higginson was a member of Lurgan Orange District LOL 16 and involved with the history museum at Brownlow House in Lurgan.
Glenavon Triangle Supporters Club said: "It is with deep regret to share the passing of our beloved friend and member Clive Higginson.
"Clive was a Triangle member for almost 50 years and was loved and respected by all, not only around Mourneview Park but the town of Lurgan and beyond. He will be sorely missed."
Mr Higginson also wrote a book detailing those from Lurgan who died in World War 2 with Richard Edgar entitled “Lurgan Heroes: World War Two Roll of Honour
The Royal British Legion in Lurgan described him as ‘a true Legion stalwart, a dear friend, and one of the most respected figures associated with Lurgan and Brownlow Royal British Legion’.
“For many people in and around Lurgan Higgy and ‘the Legion’ are inseparable!!! During some of the most difficult years in our Branch and Club's history, when internal challenges, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic threatened our future, Higgy stepped up. Through sheer determination, hard work, leadership, and an unwavering belief in what the Royal British Legion stood for, Clive helped steer Lurgan and Brownlow RBL through turbulent times.
"Much of the strong, vibrant, and welcoming Branch and Club we enjoy today is a testament to Higgy’s fortitude, vision and commitment.
"He was involved in virtually every aspect of Legion life….whether serving as Chair of the Lurgan and Brownlow Club Committee, supporting the Branch Committee, organising entertainment, helping members and beneficiaries, or simply being on hand whenever something needed done, it seemed that he was always there.
"The Royal British Legion in Lurgan described him as ‘a true Legion stalwart, a dear friend, and one of the most respected figures associated with Lurgan and Brownlow Royal British Legion’.”
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhard described him as a 'Lurgan legend and someone I had the pleasure of calling a friend'.
He never shied away from the work that needed done, just quietly got on with it.
Lurgan Royal British Legion was his second home. Through the Legion, the Triangle Club, the Loyal Orders and his work with the museum at Brownlow House, he gave so much of himself.
"He cared deeply about preserving our history and remembering those who had gone before.
"A real loyal man who cared about his town, his people and all he held dear.
"What a mark he has left on Lurgan and so much further afield. I will miss his encouragement and friendship.
"For all of us who will miss seeing Higgi about, his family will feel his absence most deeply. My heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with them now and in the difficult days ahead."
The Institute in Lurgan said: “Lurgan has lost one of it's finest. It is with deep regret, we learned today of the passing of Clive Higginson ( Higgy ). Clive was a member of the club for many many years and we extend our sincere condolences to Diane, Neil, Ross and the entire family circle.”