Sharon Beech Higginbotham, age 74, of Shelbyville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024. Born on December 15, 1949, in Panama City, Florida, Sharon was the beloved daughter of the late William Beech and Virginia Anderton Beech. She was a devoted Catholic and a longtime member of the Church of the Nativity in Spring Hill, Tennessee.
Sharon was married to the love of her life, Hubert Wayne “Hugo” Higginbotham, on November 2, 1974, in New Orleans, Louisiana. They shared many wonderful years together before Hugo’s passing in 1997.
An alumna of Middle Tennessee State University, Sharon earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1972 and went on to build a successful career in quality assurance as an editor. Outside of her professional achievements, Sharon pursued many passions, leaving an indelible mark on the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. Since 1976, she had been an active and esteemed member of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA), showcasing several Champion Horses over the years. Her involvement in the Walking Horse community was a lifelong dedication, and her presence will be deeply missed.
Sharon’s love for life extended beyond horses. An avid reader, she was a cherished member of the book club at the Church of the Nativity in Spring Hill, TN. She also had an adventurous spirit, frequently traveling to new destinations. One of her most recent and cherished trips was to Chincoteague Island, Virginia, where she witnessed the 99th annual Pony Swim in July 2024.
Sharon is survived by her cousins and her many dear friends and colleagues who loved her deeply and were touched by her kindness, intelligence, and warm spirit. Sharon had a deep love for The Lord in Heaven. She shared with her friends her comfort, that through her pancreatic cancer journey, The Lord was by her side. Sharon taught her great love of The Lord to others daily.
A memorial service will be held at the Catholic Church of the Nativity, on 09-21-2024, at 10 am; address: 2793 Buckner Lane, Thompson Station, TN 37179. Sharon will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. Margaret’s Church Cemetery in Albany, Louisiana.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Walking Horse Ladies Auxiliary would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent to P.O. Box 1821, Shelbyville, TN 37162.
Sharon will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her compassionate heart, and her love for the beautiful things in life. May she rest in eternal peace.
Bills-McGaugh & Hamilton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.
