Lena Mary Higgins

Obituary Lena M. (Antonino) Higgins September 27, 1917 - September 16, 2007 Although we didn't want to let you go, we knew how tired your little body had become. You gave each of us so much unconditional love. We had no doubt that we were your favorite...you never gave us reason to think otherwise. You made the simple moments in life special. It is these cherished memories that keep you alive in our hearts. During your life, you learned so many lessons. Born of immigrant parents, your first language was Italian, yet you embraced learning English when you started school and eventually mastered it. Your mother died when you were a teenager and although you never forgot her, you took her place to care for your father and siblings. As a young woman, you discovered the love of your life in a sailor whom your father disapproved. That same sailor became your husband and your shared love brought eight children into this world. While many material surpluses avoided you throughout your life, no one would have ever known. You were a beautiful, humble and generous woman. You taught us to be strong, caring and passionate people. You also taught us to enjoy the little pleasures in life...a lucky trip to the casino, a Christmas cactus blooming in June or a Mariner's win. You were a faithful member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Parish and its Altar Society and a dedicated employee of the Tacoma School District Food Services. As a devoted mother and grandmother, you were active in the St. Leo's Mother's Club and the Bellarmine Philomathea, as well as a cheering fan at countless athletic events and musical recitals. Your zest for life was contagious and your energy was enviable. We especially miss hearing the excitement in your voice over a bingo win or a laydown pinochle hand. You were earth conscious before it was cool, always adding to your compost pile and never throwing a plastic bag away. We have learned to respect so much in life because of you. Your loving legacy continues as you are survived by 1 son and 7 daughters, Joanne Moore (Jim), Bill Higgins (Tina DeFalco), Mary Frances Higgins, Linette Lasher (Chuck), Kathleen Thiemann (Ken), Barbara Graves (Patrick), Patricia Kennedy (Michael), Christy Higgins (Gary Evans), 18 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home 253-572-6003.