Tributes have been paid to the life of “quiet encourager”, Lurgan “legend” and true British Legion stalwart, Clive Higginson.
Clive – known fondly as ‘Higgy’ – passed away peacefully at hospital surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, October 20.
The well-respected figure’s death has prompted an outpouring of sadness across Lurgan and the wider community.
Clive was perhaps most well known for his lifelong involvement with Brownlow Royal British Legion, where his commitment, leadership and tireless service helped shape the organisation over many years.
For many people in Lurgan, Clive and the Legion were “inseparable”. His contribution extended far beyond his formal roles, with friends and fellow members remembering a man who was always willing to lend a hand and quietly get on with whatever needed to be done.
In a heartfelt tribute, Lurgan and Brownlow Royal British Legion described Clive as a true Legion stalwart, a dear friend and one of the most respected figures associated with the Branch and Club.
During some of the most challenging periods in the organisation’s history, including internal difficulties and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Clive stepped forward to help guide the Legion through uncertain times.
“Through sheer determination, hard work, leadership, and an unwavering belief in what the Royal British Legion stood for, Clive helped steer Lurgan and Brownlow RBL through turbulent times,” said a spokesperson for the Legion.
“Much of the strong, vibrant, and welcoming Branch and Club we enjoy today is a testament to Higgy’s fortitude, vision and commitment.”
Clive served as Chair of the Lurgan and Brownlow Club Committee, supported the Branch Committee, helped organise entertainment and assisted members and beneficiaries.
He was also instrumental in fostering a close working relationship between the Club and Branch, a partnership which was highlighted as an example for other organisations within the Northern Ireland Royal British Legion District.
“Clive had a remarkable ability to bring people together, ensuring that the Club and Branch worked side-by-side for the good of all,” the tribute continued.
“He was equally passionate about the annual Poppy Appeal. Working tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting fundraising efforts, engaging with local schools, and helping to ensure that Remembrance remained at the heart of our community, Higgy embodied everything the Legion stands for.
“One of the finest, yet largely unsung, examples of his commitment was the time and care he devoted each year to laying Poppy Crosses on the graves of ex-servicemen and women across all local cemeteries, regardless of denomination or background. His approach was always respectful, inclusive, and rooted in a genuine desire to honour those who served.”
His approach reflected a deep respect for all who had served and a genuine commitment to ensuring their sacrifice was never forgotten.
Away from his work with the Royal British Legion, Clive was passionate about preserving the military heritage of Lurgan and the surrounding district.
His extensive knowledge of local military history helped ensure that the stories of those who served and sacrificed during the World Wars would continue to be remembered by future generations.
In 2020, Clive and fellow local historian, Richard Edgar co-authored the limited-edition book ‘Lurgan Heroes… The World War Two Roll of Honour’.
The publication documented the men, women and children from across Lurgan who lost their lives during the Second World War, reflecting the authors’ considerable research and dedication to preserving the town’s history.
Clive’s involvement in local heritage also extended to his work with the museum at Brownlow House, alongside his connections with the Triangle Club and the Loyal Orders.
His commitment to remembering those who had gone before him was a defining part of his life and work.
Despite the breadth of his achievements, Clive was not someone who sought recognition. Instead, he was remembered as a “humble and selfless man” who placed service above personal praise.
The Legion said his life embodied its guiding principle: “Service, Not Self”.
Tributes have also come from local representatives and friends, including Carla Lockhart, who expressed her sadness at Clive’s passing and extended her thoughts and prayers to his family.
Describing him as a “Lurgan legend” and a friend, she remembered Clive as a “quiet encourager who never shied away from hard work”.
She said the Royal British Legion was his “second home”, highlighting the many organisations and causes to which he gave his time, including the Triangle Club, the Loyal Orders and the museum at Brownlow House.
While recognising the profound loss felt by the wider community, she acknowledged that Clive’s absence would be felt most deeply by his family.
Her tribute concluded with heartfelt sympathy for his loved ones, with the hope that they would find comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Away from his community commitments, Clive was a dearly loved husband, father, grandfather and brother.
A death notice described him as the devoted husband of Diane, beloved father of Neil and Ross, father-in-law of Laura and Jenna, and much-loved grandfather of Evie, Frankie, Jacob, Henry, Jenson and Bailey. He was also the dearest brother of Tracy and Nicola.
Clive’s funeral service will take place at Brownlow House on Friday October 23, at 12 noon, followed by interment in Lurgan Cemetery.
Family and friends are welcome to share their condolences at Malcomsons Funeral Home on Thursday, October 22, between 2pm and 4pm, and again between 6pm and 9pm. The family home will remain strictly private.
Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, may be made to the Royal British Legion through Malcomsons Funeral Service, 7 Robert Street, Lurgan, BT66 8BE.
In its tribute, Lurgan and Brownlow Royal British Legion extended its sincere condolences to Diane, Neil, Ross and the wider Higginson family, acknowledging the heartbreak of their loss and expressing hope that they may find some comfort in the affection, respect and gratitude held for Clive by so many people.
His contribution to the Legion, the wider community and the cause of Remembrance will leave a lasting legacy.
For the many people whose lives he touched, Clive ‘Higgy’ Higginson will be remembered as a loyal friend, a dedicated volunteer, a passionate local historian and a man who gave so much of himself to others.
