JACKSON — Charlene Ann (Wingate) Higgins passed away peacefully at the end of her battle with cancer Oct. 22, 2012, surrounded by family and loved ones.

"Charlie" kept her wit, good humor and compassion for others right through her final days, passing on with dignity and grace. Charlie was born in Belfast April 12, 1947. She was a member of the first graduating class from Mt. View High School. She was a hard worker throughout her life and touched many people's lives. She married her life's love Aug. 30, 1980. They spent hours, days, weeks and years together working hard, always finding time to do the things they enjoyed. Charlie loved to hunt, fish and just live life.

She was predeceased by her mother, Kathleen (Murphy) Wingate; her Nana, Hildred Velma Murphy; her Grampa, Leon Murphy; and her Grammie, Gladys Small; her step-sister, Valerie Erb; as well as many loved ones. She is survived by her husband, Harvey Grant Higgins Jr. of Jackson; her father, Roger L. Wingate Sr. and step-mom, Carolyn (Cox) Wingate of Thorndike; her little brother, "Sonny Bono" and friend Ed; her loving sister, Tammie "Wham Bam" (Wingate) Leach and her husband, Jeff; her step-sisters, Renee Cohen, Judy Kanney and Lorraine Cox; and her step-brother, Kevin Cox. She is also survived by her daughter, Heidi (Stewart) Wilson and her husband, Steve "on" of Thorndike; her step-children, Matt Higgins and his wife, Shawna, Brad, Mindy, Chris and his wife, Kayla, Kim, Amber and her husband Travis; several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and others who loved her dearly as she did them — the list is endless. Charlene also leaves behind her baby, Misty Blue.

Following Charlie's wishes, there will be no visiting hours or funeral. A celebration of life will be held at Charlene and Harvey's home Saturday, Oct. 27 all day. In lieu of flowers, the family would like friends and family to join them at her celebration to share memories, laughs, tears and "possibly" a drink or two.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.ripostafh.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast.