Published in the November 27, 2015 edition
CAMBRIDGE — Elizabeth E. “Lillian” (Harnett) Higgins, 78, formerly of Arlington, died peacefully Wednesday evening at Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge in the embrace of her devoted husband and her four children.
Lillian was the beloved wife of Lawrence (Mickey) for 53 years, who survives her and loved her dearly. She is also survived by her four loving children: Tim, Larry, Liz and Kathleen and their spouses, Carol (Nagle) Higgins and James McTeague, who were special people to her.
Born in the Bronx, N.Y., Lillian was the devoted daughter of Tim and Mary (Wallace) Hartnett, who was taken from her far too early in life. Lillian was a Bostonian by address but a New Yorker at heart. She loved history, politics and a good debate. She loved sarcasm and a good laugh; cooking for her family; a good New York hot dog; a day at the beach; cherished time with her nine grandchildren (Hannah, Connor, Michael, Lauren, Emily, Ella, Elise, Lily and Grace); her home in retirement on Cape Cod, and quiet nights at home with her husband and best friend, Mickey. Her sister, the late Joan Blake and Joan’s family, were always in her heart and always at the center of her fondest memories.
Lillian’s family would like to thank the staff of Sancta Maria Nursing Facility in Cambridge and Mount Auburn Hospital for the abundance of care given to Lillian over the last few years and moments of her life. The kindness and compassion you extended will always be remembered.
Visitation was held on Sunday, Nov. 22 at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St. Her funeral took place on Monday at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial in Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield. Burial took place in St. Patrick Cemetery, Stoneham. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Sancta Maria Nursing Facility, 799 Concord Ave., Cambridge MA 02138. For directions and to sign an online condolence, visit www.gatelyfh.com.
