Freehold Icon James Higgins Dies

James Higgins, Freehold icon and founder of Higgins Memorial Home in Freehold Borough died Saturday at the age of 88, according to today's Asbury Park Press.

James Higgins, right, was a founding director and chairman of Hudson Manor. Here, in 2002, he is joined by former Council members Kevin Coyne, left, and Robert Crawford, center, at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new community room at the Manor. .Jackie Pollack/staff

Higgins, who was born on his family's farm in Colts Neck and graduated from Freehold High School in 1941, opened the Higgins Memorial Home in 1952 in Rumson, and moved it to its current location on Center Street in 1954.

According to the obit, Higgins served on the Freehold Board of Education for 28 years, including several terms as board president, and the Freehold Borough Planning Board for 18 years.

In 1996, Higgins received the John G. McGackin Award from the Borough for his service and contributions in town.

He was also an active member and past president of the Freehold Rotary Club, the Freehold Optomist Club, the VFW, the Lions Club of Freehold Township, the Elks Lodge of Freehold, the Knights of Columbus, and many other social clubs. He was honored by Christian Brothers Academy and the Institute of the De La Salle Christian Brothers in 2000 and 2008, respectively.

Higgins was a communicant at St. Rose of Lima, where the funeral will be celebrated on Thursday at 10A, followed by interment at the parish cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9PM.