Obituary: Deette (DeeDee) Pierson Higgins, 89, Of Fairfield

The following obituary is from Shaughnessey Banks Funeral Home:

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Deette (DeeDee) Pierson Higgins, age 89, of Fairfield, Connecticut and Amelia Island, Florida, beloved wife of Dr. Kenneth Elliott Higgins. DeeDee passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024, with her family by her side. She was born in Pittsford, NY, to Esther and Mitchell Pierson and was the sister to Mitchell and Gaylord Pierson.

DeeDee attended and graduated from Madeira School in Virginia and Bennett College in New York, where she majored in Modern Dance. She lived a full life spending her childhood and young adulthood riding her beloved horses at Kolaneka Farms and High Point, frequently competing in horse shows and fox hunting with the Genesee Valley Hunt Club.

On September 7, 1957, she married the love of her life, Kenneth Elliott Higgins. The couple started their life together in New Hampshire, where their three children were born and then moved to Fairfield in 1963.

DeeDee and Ken valued novel experiences for themselves and their children with many memorable adventures traveling to Block Island, weekends skiing in Vermont with family and friends, and trips to Grand Cayman, to name a few. Her hallmark quick wit brought laughter and joy to those around her and her clever remarks and humorous anecdotes added warmth and levity to every occasion.

Dance was not just a passion for DeeDee, but a form of expression that brought her immense joy. Growing up, DeeDee and her siblings learned many styles of ballroom dance, her family often spontaneously dancing at night after dinner at their home, High Point. Her graceful movements and rhythmic steps were a testament to her love for the art form and it was always a special treat to watch DeeDee and her family on the dance floor at every family celebration.

Sports were also major part of DeeDee?s life. Accomplished at tennis, golf and skiing, she was a consistent supporter of her children at all their team competitions. She was well-known for enthusiastic vocal support, spirited discussions with the referees and a signature whistle that could be heard above the crowds and across the fields.

Everything in DeeDee's life could lead to singing a song or a jingle. From mundane tasks to special occasions, her voice filled the air with joy and harmony. Growing up, DeeDee enjoyed friendly singing competitions with her brother Mitchell, showcasing their endless knowledge of songs most of us had never heard of. These memories of laughter and music remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Ken and Deedee's home became the heart of our family's celebrations, where every holiday was infused with laughter, song, and the warmth of their love. Their gatherings were a symphony of joy, filled with delicious meals, spirited dancing, and playtime with the grandchildren.

DeeDee is survived by sister Gay Pierson; her three children, Kenneth Higgins, Jr. and his wife Brinker, Kari Higgins Pander, and Mitch Higgins and his wife Elizabeth (Bitsy); 5 grandchildren, to whom she was known as ?Nonnie?, Elliott Higgins, Eliza Higgins Grabis, Taylor Pierson McGovern, Ryan Brittany Pander, Whitney Higgins Pander; and two great grandchildren, Charlie Mitchell McGovern and Bodie Pierson McGovern. DeeDee was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Mitchell Pierson, Jr.

Always a beacon of light and love, DeeDee?s last words were ?I love you more.?

We will miss you, DeeDee. We always knew where home was with you. And through the values you?ve instilled in us and your demonstration of a purposeful life well-lived, you live on.

We love you more, DeeDee.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 651 Pequot Avenue, Southport, CT 06890.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Planned Parenthood, www.plannedparenthood.org.