Gary Lamar Higginbotham

Higginbotham - Gary L. Higginbotham, age 79, of Callahan, Florida, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Community Hospice Warner Center in Fernandina Beach, Florida. He was surrounded by his two daughters and sister as he went home to be with Jesus. Gary was born on May 12, 1946, in Jacksonville, Florida and was the son of the late Elworth Higginbotham and Maude Peterson Higginbotham Simmons. He was also lovingly raised by his stepfather, Coy Simmons. A proud graduate of Ribault High School's Class of 1964, Gary went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy aboard the USS English during the Cuban Blockade Era at Guantanamo Bay. In 1968, Gary married the love of his life, Iris Rae Holton who preceded him in meeting Jesus in July 2020. Their marriage was a lasting partnership built on faith and mutual devotion. Following his military service, Gary returned home and took over Simmons & Son Electric Motors. As an electric motor repairman and business owner, he dedicated more than three decades to serving his community with skill and integrity. In the mid-1970s, he became a land developer in Callahan, Florida. A place he would call home for the rest of his life. Even after retiring from full-time work, Gary remained active in his community. He worked part-time at Burger King in Callahan to "keep up with his people skills," a testament to his outgoing nature and love for conversation. His final and most cherished role was serving as a school crossing guard at Callahan Elementary School, a position that brought him great joy and allowed him to continue connecting with others. Gary was also a devoted Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite. He was known for his generous spirit and boundless warmth. Gary was a true people person, he never met a stranger and had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome. He saw only the good in others and extended help wherever he could. Gary's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life and grew stronger with each passing day.

Gary is survived by his two daughters, Keri (Charles "Skeeter") Ybarra and Melissa (Donald) Green; and four grandsons, Ethan Green, Evan Green, Kyle Carranza, and Kash Raulerson, who lovingly called him "Papa." Gary took great pride in his grandsons and spoke of them often with joy and admiration.

Gary is also survived by his only sister, Sharilyn G. Meares; and extended family which includes many nephews and nieces, great- nephews and great-nieces, as well as great-greats. He was also blessed with many beloved lifelong friends whose bonds with him endured through the years.

A Graveside Service for Gary will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Edgewood Cemetery with Chaplain Jackie Hayes officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Nassau Funeral Home. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.