Wilson Asbury Higgs

Dr. Wilson Asbury Higgs passed away on Jan. 9, 2022.

He was born on January 5, 1938, in Charles Town, West Virginia. He was raised on an apple orchard in Nelson County, Virginia, attending school until 11th grade (the highest grade his county offered). He paid his own way through college by washing dishes, attending the University of Richmond where he met his wife, Charlotte. He received his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia. We are not sure Wilson ever washed another dish in his life since he said he had washed a lifetime of dishes in college.

From a young age, Wilson had a curious and eager mind. Learning and education were his ticket to see the world. After medical school, he spent three years in the Air Force as a flight surgeon based in Anchorage, Alaska, where he developed his love for the fresh mountain air. Once he finished his ENT residency in Pennsylvania, he and Charlotte headed to Kalispell with their three children.

Wilson found a great deal of satisfaction in his profession. He was involved in the medical community in many ways, but his greatest love was caring for patients. Outside of work, he enjoyed the beauty of Montana — hiking, backpacking, skiing, and being at the cabin on the lake. He also had a passion for music. Many hours were spent listening to classical music. For nearly 30 years he sang with the Glacier Symphony Chorale. He might skip dinner, but he would never skip a chorale practice if he could help it.

Many will remember Wilson for his kind, gentle spirit and his witty sense of humor. He often had a twinkle in his eye that seemed to say he was just about to let the cat out of the bag. He was full of pithy sayings that were always just right for the moment and usually brought a smile to someone’s day. Even to the end, he was a bright spot for many of the staff who cared for him and loved him at Buffalo Hill Retreat & Terrace during his struggle with Parkinson’s. He never let his physical decline dampen his attitude. He was an inspiration of aging with grace for those of us who knew him during this time.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Charlotte; three children David Higgs, Steven Higgs, and Kathryn Miller; a niece, Donna Kelley; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He will be missed.

A memorial service will be held at the Buffalo Hill Terrace Chapel on Wednesday, Jan. 12, at 11 a.m. Masks are required by the facility for anyone who is not a Buffalo Hill Terrace or Villas resident. Please allow extra time for check-in at the front desk.