Barbara Ann Philbeck Higgins of Forest City

Barbara Ann Philbeck Higgins of Forest City died January 9, 2026.

She was the daughter of the late Hammond and Hazel Philbeck. Her Husband was the late Harlen Higgins. Her sister was the late Lucille Fincannon.

She is survived by her son John Higgins and wife Stephanie, her grandson John Cole Higgins and wife Maddie and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Higgins was born in Rutherford County, lived in the Washburn and Concord Communities before moving to Spindale. Shortly after moving to Spindale they started attending Spindale United Methodist Church. She was very active in the UM Women for many years, holding various positions in both the local church and at the district level. She also was a lay delegate at the General Conference at Lake Junaluska. She graduated from RS Central High School and attended Medical Record Transcription school. Later she received her Associates of Science degree from ICC and then graduated from Western Carolina University with a BS in Medical Record Administration. While in High School she volunteered as a candy stripper at Rutherford Hospital. It was with Rutherford Hospital that she began a long career in the Medical Records department. She served as director of that department for many years. Her career was cut short by a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis in 1990.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, January 17, at 2pm at Spindale United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends starting at 1pm in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to Spindale United Methodist Church.

Crowe's Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.