Patricia M. Higgins

HOLYOKE- Patricia M. (Sullivan) Higgins, 89, a lifelong Holyoke resident, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother and sister passed away in the comfort of her home on Friday, August 17, 2012. She entered eternal rest and peace with her husband of 66 years Patrick J. Higgins, and her family at her bedside. Patricia was born in Holyoke on March 12, 1923 a daughter of the late Patrick and Mary (Moriarty) Sullivan. She was educated locally and was a 1940 graduate of Holyoke High School. She was a woman of great faith which was very evident in the way she lived and raised her family. She was a communicant of Blessed Sacrament Parish for over 50 years and served as the office manager for Holyoke Catholic High School for many years. Patricia loved to travel with the Golden Agers, especially to the casino but most important were her Sunday family dinners at her home. In addition to her faithful and devoted husband, Patricia is survived by her daughter, Patricia Gareau and her husband Denis of Granby; two sons, Peter Higgins and his wife Kathleen of W. Springfield and Michael Higgins and his wife Mary Frances of W. Springfield. Patricia was predeceased by a daughter, Kathleen Ann Hance on March 19, 2010. She leaves nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and one great great grandson. She will be missed by her sisters, Mary Claire Reagan of Holyoke and Dorothy Reiman of CT as well as her many nieces, nephews and friends. She was also predeceased by a sister, Katherine Donovan. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 from 4-7 PM at Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton Street, Holyoke, MA 01040. Patricia’s funeral will begin at 8:45 AM on Wednesday, August 22, 2012 from the funeral home and followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10 AM in Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton St., Holyoke. The Burial and Rite of Committal will be in St. Jerome Cemetery, Holyoke. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Patricia’s name may be made to Jericho, 537 Northampton St., Holyoke, MA 01040 or to Hospice Life Care, 113 Hampden St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com to view Patricia’s personal webpage and for more details.