Mrs. Shirley Higgins, age 67, of Edisto Island, SC, passed away at her home early Monday morning after a courageous six-year battle with cancer.

Shirley Harrison Higgins was born on January 7, 1958, in Lexington County, South Carolina, to Sarah and Joseph Hobby Sr. The youngest girl of nine siblings, Shirley was later lovingly adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle, Edith and Roy Hobby, in Fort Valley, Georgia.

In 1984, Shirley found her forever home on beloved Edisto Island, SC, where her deep love for family and community blossomed. She began her life on the island as the proud co-owner of The Steamer restaurant alongside her late husband, Jim Harrison. In 1992, Shirley transitioned from the restaurant industry to a career in insurance adjusting with Pilot Catastrophe, where she served with dedication and compassion. Helping people during their most vulnerable moments brought her great purpose, and it was through this work that she met her current husband, Keith Higgins. The two were married in 2007, and Shirley continued working faithfully for Pilot Catastrophe for more than 27 years.

When she wasn't enjoying life on Edisto, Shirley could be found cheering on her Clemson Tigers in her home away from home, Clemson, SC. A true "ALL-IN" fan, her unwavering passion for the Tigers was known to everyone who met her.

Shirley's hospitality, warmth, and generosity were among her greatest gifts. Her family, friends, and community were the frequent recipients of her selfless acts of service. She was a devoted member of Edisto Beach Baptist Church, where she served in many roles—including the building committee and Vacation Bible School, which held a special place in her heart. She found immense joy working with the children each summer, pouring love into their lives with the same care and energy she gave to everyone she met.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, late husband (Jim Harrison), sisters (Linda and Joyce), and brothers (Jimmy and Larry). She is survived by loving & devoted husband of 18 years, Keith Higgins, who was a faithful caregiver to Shirley over the course of her battle; daughters, Stacy Brown (Tommy), Amy Hamilton Stephens (Michael), and Christina Hamilton Lake (Russell); son, Charles Robert (Robby) Harrison (Chelsea); grandchildren, Haley Stephens, Emma Stephens, Kasey Stephens, Harrison Brown, Sarah Grace Brown, Ella Grace Lake, Ansleigh Lake, Hamilton Lake; siblings, Charles Hobby, Jo Shealy, Sara Spence, Mike Huffman, and Robert Huffman; parents-in-laws, Jerry & Alice Higgins; as well as many extended family members of the Higgins and Pilot families, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Shirley Higgins to one/both of the following:

Edisto Beach Baptist Church Building Fund

414 Jungle Road

Edisto Beach, SC 29438

Medical University of South Carolina

Hollings Cancer Center

86 Jonathan Lucas Street, MSC 955

Charleston, SC 29425

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation Friday evening, July 11, 2025 from 5:00 until 7:00 at the Edisto Beach Baptist Church, 414 Jungle Road, Edisto Island, SC 29438.  Funeral services will be held at the church Saturday morning at 11:00, with committal services following at the Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island, 2164 SC-174, Edisto Island.  Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro is assisting the family with arrangements.