Dorothy “Dotty” Jane Higdon (Salzman)

Dorothy "Dotty" Jane Higdon (Salzman), 85, a lifelong Laurel resident, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, February 27, 2026. She was a loving and devoted mother, Meemaw, sister, aunt, wife, friend, and dog lover.

Dotty was born on November 23, 1940, in the family home on Brooklyn Bridge Road in Laurel, Maryland, the sixth of nine children. She shared fond memories of growing up surrounded by her siblings, family, and beloved pets.

In June 1958, Dotty graduated from Laurel High School, where she proudly served as a majorette for the Laurel Fire Department Auxiliary Squad.

In November 1960, Dotty married William "Billy" Sinclair, and together they had 4 children: Debbie, Michael, Patty and Pam. She loved attending her children's sporting events and enjoyed bowling and playing softball. Dotty worked for many years at C&P Telephone Company, where she eventually retired.

In June 1987, she married Richard "Dick" Higdon. Together they shared a love of auctions, flea markets, and yard sales, as well as weekends spent at the farm in Virginia—a special time shared with their grandson Tommy.

Dotty's greatest joy in life was her family. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially attending their sporting events, concerts, and plays. She loved staying connected with family and friends through long phone calls and reminiscing with former coworkers.

In her quieter moments, Dotty enjoyed crossword puzzles, word searches, and jigsaw puzzles. She could often be found watching her favorite shows, including The Waltons, Judge Judy, Animal Planet, and women's soccer and basketball.

She is lovingly remembered by husband, Richard "Dick" Higdon; daughters, Patty Hall and Pam Dean; son-in-laws, Steve Hall and Brian Dean; grandchildren, Tommy (Daniela) Kaiser, Billy and Ricky (Cortney) Hall, and Quinn and Liam Dean; great-granddaughters, Savanna and Miranda Kaiser, and Emmy and Monroe Hall; brother, Johnny Salzman and his wife Nancy, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Dotty was welcomed into heaven by her beloved children, Deborah Lynn Kaiser and Michael William Sinclair; ex-husband, William "Billy" Sinclair; parents, Wilbur and Emma Salzman; siblings Margaret, Jean, Betty, Shirley, Wilma, June, and Sonny; and many nieces, nephews and childhood friends. She was reunited with her loyal German Shepherd, Charlie, along with many other cherished family pets.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her and will forever be held in our hearts. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.