Mary Nell Higginbotham

Mary Nell Higginbotham, 91, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, surrounded by the staff that so faithfully cared for her.

Mary was born on September 30, 1934, in Atlanta, Texas, to Walter and Era Mae Little. She grew up with a strong work ethic and an adventurous spirit, which led her to many careers before she found her calling as a buyer at Baker Oil and Tools, where she proudly retired! Once she retired, she got bored and decided she was going to open HR&B, which stood for Higginbotham, Rawlinson, and Biscamp-her daughter Vickie and son Dewayne. Together, off they went on another adventure. It was hard work: sandblasting and painting cement trucks and aluminum trusses that were used at Astroworld. Finally, she was ready to really retire (ha) and went on to manage John's career as a gospel singer.

In 1974, Mary married the love of her life, John Higginbotham. Together, they built a blended family of six children-Vickie Biscamp, Melva Lewis, Dewayne Rawlinson, Robert Higginbotham, Johnny Higginbotham, and Joe Higginbotham. With older children already grown and three young boys still at home, she embraced her role as a devoted mother and nurturer with grace and love.

Mary had a giving spirit and was always ready to help others in their time of need. Her family traditions were deeply important to her, and she especially cherished having everyone together for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Christmas was her favorite season-she delighted in decorating both the inside and outside of her home each year, creating warm and festive memories for her family.

She enjoyed bowling, golfing, playing cards, and soaking up the sunshine. A devoted Christian, Mary and John dedicated much of their retirement to traveling across Houston and beyond, booking free singing engagements at churches, nursing homes, and community events. John sang while Mary faithfully served as his manager, sharing joy and faith with countless people.

Mary lived a full and vibrant life. She is survived by her children Melva Lewis, Dewayne Rawlinson, and Joe Higginbotham; grandchildren Nathan Wade, Tosha Perkins, Michael Biscamp, Steven Biscamp, Mercy Higginbotham, Jordan Higginbotham, and Katie Higginbotham; her sister, Lucille; and many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her children Vickie Biscamp, Robert Higginbotham, and Johnny Higginbotham; grandson Bradley Rawlingson, and her parents, Walter and Era Mae Little.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 29th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 8706 Almeda Genoa Rd., Houston, Texas 77075. Funeral services will follow from 12:00 to 12:30 PM, with interment immediately after at the adjoining cemetery. Lunch will be served afterward at the funeral home.

Mary will be remembered for her deep faith, her joyful spirit, and her unwavering love for her family.