Jackie Ray Higgins, 80, of Forest City, went to be with the Lord on May 13, 2026. Born June 10, 1945, he was the son of Arthur and Dovie Higgins. He was a 1963 graduate of RS Central High School. After graduation, Jackie enlisted in the Air Force. In 1966, he married the love of his life, Judy Horner Higgins. This July, they would have been married 60 years. Two weeks after their marriage, Jackie was informed he would be going to Vietnam where he willingly and proudly served his country.  He and Judy had three children: Sherry, Buddy, and Jason.

Jackie was a devoted husband, dad, and friend. He cared for his family with a love and sense of humor that only God can give. He loved his wife “Babe” and together they gave their children the best childhood imaginable filled with picnics, ball games, band competitions, card games, cook outs, vacations, fishing trips, and so much more. He was involved in every aspect of his children’s lives which included taking Sherry door to door to sell Girl Scout cookies as well as hauling band equipment for competitions. When Buddy played softball, he became the softball coach for Rutherford County Special Olympics. This was one of his greatest accomplishments and he loved his team as if they were his own kids. But, perhaps it is the way he has loved and cared for Jason through the years that has endeared him to so many. They could be seen at Owls baseball games, Walmart, high school football games, eating out, and on Sunday mornings, the front row of Second Baptist Church. His and Jason’s relationship wasn’t just a father/son bond. They were friends. 

While Jackie loved his children, it was his grandchildren who were the apples of his eye. They brought him so much joy and love. The love he had for them was evident and he would gladly tell anyone who would listen all about them. His love and support have truly impacted their lives and they are all better for it. 

Jackie was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Judy, and his son Buddy, as well as his siblings: Harold “Butch” Mayse (Louise), Betty Pope, Earl Higgins (Grace), Charlie Higgins (Ola), Roy Higgins (Elizabeth), and Nancy Radford (Neil).

He is survived by his daughter Sherry Curtis and husband Gary of Green Creek, NC, and son Jason Higgins of the home, his four grandchildren, Autumn Curtis, Cj Curtis, Isaiah Hunt (Ema), and Bella Bridges. He is also survived by two brothers Bobby Higgins (Gaye) and Wayne Higgins (Pat), and sister-in-law, Frances Walker, all of Rutherfordton, as well as a number of nieces and nephews. 

The funeral service will be held at 4 o’clock on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Second Baptist Church with the Reverend Brandon Wood and Reverend Chad Dillard officiating.  Interment will follow at Cool Springs Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 o’clock on Sunday evening at Padgett and King.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, Post Office Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043 or Second Baptist Church, 191 Green Street, Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com