Gertrude Mae Higgins

Gertrude Mae Higgins, age 89, of Port Charlotte, FL., passed away peacefully on December 17, 2019. Trudy was born in Long Lake, N.Y., the daughter of Rev. Jesse and Zelda (Duane) Russell. She graduated from Kingston High School Class of 1948, Kingston, N.Y. She began her career in Human Resources employed at G.E., Schenectady, N.Y. from 1948-1954. She then spent 15 wonderful years at home raising her 3 children. In 1969 she returned to work as assistant to the Director of Human Resources at St. Clare’s Hospital, Schenectady, N.Y. and retired from that position in 1987.

Trudy enjoyed 32 years of retirement spending time at her summer home in the Catskill Mountains at Hunter, N.Y. and her winter home near the Gulf of Mexico at Port Charlotte, FL. She loved swimming and boating, golfing and traveling to many of America’s National Parks. Her love of God remained consistent throughout her life. Her faith was unshakeable. Her love for her church and her commitment to giving to the Lord’s work were of great importance in her life.

Trudy was married to her husband, Neal Higgins, for 69 years. Neal predeceased her in September 2018. She will be lovingly remembered by her three children. Daughter, Sharon Andres (Alan) of Rotonda West, FL., son, Gary Higgins (Elaine) of Lake Luzerne, N.Y., and son, Michael Higgins (Stacy) of Ballston Lake, N.Y. Three grandchildren, Sarah Higgins-Norman, Matthew Higgins and Leah Higgins. A brother, Philip Russell and a sister, Joyce Bozak. Trudy’s sister, Ruth Jones, predeceased her in 2016. She also has many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service for Gertrude will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 11 AM at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Albany, N.Y. Interment will follow in the Trinity Garden at Memory Gardens Memorial Park, 983 Watervliet Shaker Road, Albany, N.Y.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation to Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL. 34238 would be kindly appreciated. Cannon Funeral Home, Albany, N.Y. is caring for arrangements.