David Clarence Higgins was born on March 24, 1935, in a humble cabin with dirt floors in Inez, Kentucky. He entered the world as the son of missionary parents, Austin Paul Higgins and Grace Myrtle Bearveldt Higgins, whose deep faith and dedication laid a strong spiritual foundation for his life. Raised in the hills of Kentucky and later in North Carolina, David trusted the Lord as his Savior at a young age and grew as faithful believer whose life was marked by quiet strength, humility, and unwavering daily dependence on the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit. He never complained, even in the most difficult circumstances, and consistently taught the truth of God's Word to his family.

David received a solid Christian education, attending Ben Lippen School for boys in North Carolina. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College and his ThM from Dallas Theological Seminary. After marriage to Nancy, David worked diligently six days a week to provide for his family while remaining deeply involved in the Lord's work. He served faithfully on multiple church elder and deacon boards, taught Sunday school regularly and gave 29 years of dedicated service on the Board of Frontier Camp, a Christian summer camp and retreat center. Thousands of campers have trusted Jesus as their savior through the ministry of Frontier Camp.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Austin Paul and Grace Baerveldt Higgins; his brothers, Paul and Joseph Higgins; and his beloved wife of many years, Nancy Kershaw Higgins. David and Nancy built a loving and enduring home together, raising four sons who were the pride of his life: Jeff Higgins (wife Ginger), Greg Higgins (wife Laurie), Brad Higgins (wife Kendra), and Scott Higgins (wife Monica). He loved his wife and family deeply and well, demonstrating this commitment through his consistent walk with the Lord until his final day. He ensured all four sons received a solid Christian education, passing on the faith that had shaped him.  He is also survived by his brother-in-law Bob Kershaw and wife Paula, and his nephew Jonathan Kershaw and wife Whitney, who were dear to him and remained close to the family throughout the years.

David's legacy lives on through his 14 cherished grandchildren: Abigail Etter (David), Anneliese Bosveld (Kyle), Ashley Clemmons (Parker), Andrew Higgins (Lauren), Allyson Fowler (Marcos), Alexander Higgins (Sarah), Aaron Higgins (Bianca), Luke Higgins, Cohen Higgins, Mason Higgins, Hailey Higgins, Hunter Higgins, Jaelyn Higgins, and Adele Higgins.

He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren: Gabriel Etter, Isaiah Etter, Everly Higgins, Levi Higgins, Samuel Higgins, Elowyn Bosveld, Asher Bosveld, Judah Fowler, and Santiago Fowler.

Those who knew David will remember a man of quiet strength and steadfast faith, rooted in his conviction of the truth of God's word.   His life, which began so simply in a Kentucky cabin, became rich with the love, laughter, and generational fruit of the family he cherished. He found immense joy in watching the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren unfold as they too came to know the Savior he loved.

David passed away on March 25, 2026, just one day after celebrating his 91st birthday. A formal memorial service will be arranged by the family at a later date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be directed to Frontier Camp.

David Clarence Higgins lived a life of faithfulness, humility, and deep familial bonds. He will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to call him husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Frontier Camp. Link available below in Memorial Donation.

Frontier Camp