Shirley Higham

Shirley Irene Mason Higham, 86, formerly of Idaho Falls, passed away Saturday, September 1, 2012 in Lindon, Utah. Shirley was born December 26, 1925 in Long Beach, California to Aaron Burr Mason and Bona Roe Mason. She grew up in southern California, where she loved the beaches and always seemed to live near one. At the age of 16, she became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On August 6, 1943 she married Leo Higham in the Salt Lake LDS temple. Together they raised eight children. After WWII, her husband became a broadcaster, so they moved to Brigham City, Utah. She was not used to a little town. When Shirley knew they were moving to Idaho Falls, she made up her mind she was going to like Idaho Falls, and she did. She always said, “It’s a great place to bring up kids. I sure don’t live here because of the weather.” She missed the sun and beaches.After 62 years of marriage, Leo passed away on September 29, 2005. Shirley then married Mark Smith of Idaho Falls on August 10, 2006. He passed away on March 2, 2011. Shirley was a fun mom who built spook allies on Halloween, was in on water fights, and created special family fun nights. When grandchildren came along, she had cousin parties for them and remembered them in special ways on their birthdays. As an active member of the LDS faith, she loved teaching or coaching youth, and especially loved the youth of the wards she attended. In her later years, she became very involved in genealogy and family histories. It was hard for her to keep up with the changes in computer programs, but she took the time to learn. In 1980, Shirley and Leo became involved in their son David’s business “The Rose Shop.” She made plants her specialty and looked forward to going to work each morning. In her later 70s she still worked there part time. She left these words to her family: “Life isn’t easy, but it is wonderful. Attitude is everything. I love you all! See you!!!” Survivors include: Daughters, Nancy (Melvin) Olsen of Lindon, UT; Linda (Wayne) Wilhelmsen of Nampa, ID; Janet (Travis) Bowen of Kaysville, UT; Terrie (Gregory) Campbell of Elverta, CA; Sons, Richard (Joyce) Higham of Boise, ID; David (Jacque) Higham of Idaho Falls, ID; Gary (Bonnie) Higham of Star Valley, WY; Paul (Shelly) Higham of Las Vegas, NV; 49 Grandchildren; 140 Great Grandchildren; and 1Great-great Grandson; and her sister, Joan (Dick) Say of Orem, UT. She was preceded in death by both husbands, Leo Higham and Mark Smith Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at the Idaho Falls LDS 14the Ward (651 Gladstone Street) with Bishop Dean Ward officiating. The family will visit with friends from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Grant- Central Cemetery under the direction of Wood Funeral Home.

Funeral Services -- Wednesday

11:00 a.m. ,Wednesday, September 5, 2012 Idaho Falls LDS 14th Ward 651 Gladstone Street Idaho Falls, ID, Bonneville 83401 Notes: The family will visit with friends from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Grant-Central Cemetery under the direction of Wood Funeral Home.