Betty Higley Obituary

Betty Marie Higley

Betty Marie Higley, 91 of Troy, went to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Ohio's Hospice of Miami County, Troy. She was born April 1, 1935, in Toledo, to the late Raymond C. and Doris Margaret (Wilson) Hance.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Dennis Wesley Higley, November 16, 2010. She was also preceded by her brothers, Robert and Marvin Hance.

Betty loved her family deeply. She is survived by her daughter, Ann Marie Harju and son-in-law, Aaron Harju of Troy; grandchildren, Claire Margaret Harju and Nathan Christopher Harju; nieces, Roberta Hance, Jennifer Baum, and Christa Plato; nephews, Kevin Hance and Jody Hance; and many great nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Betty was a 1953 graduate of Van Buren High School and attended University of Findlay. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Troy for over 50 years, where she served as treasurer for 37 years. Betty was employed at Marathon Oil Company in Findlay for 20 years, where she helped establish the oil industry library. She was given special recognition in the Hartzell Spence book "The Portrait of Oil," which outlined the history of the Ohio Oil Company and the petroleum industry.

In her spare time, Betty enjoyed fishing, boating, and playing games. As a young adult, she was an avid bowler and even bowled a perfect game. She was an Ohio State Buckeye football fanatic and loved her UConn Women's basketball. Betty loved all animals, elephants, cardinals, and her beloved dog, Gracie.

Betty was known for her determination and her strength, which most likely stemmed from her battle with polio at an early age. Her willpower and resilience were abundant. She had a zest for life and lived hers to the fullest. Her curiosity and eagerness were apparent in everything she set her mind to. Betty also had an unwavering faith in Jesus, and her greatest desire was to serve Him faithfully.

The family will lead a Celebration of Life service at noon Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home, Troy. Visitation will be from 10 a.m.- noon at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery, Troy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Ohio's Hospice of Miami County.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home, Troy.

Online condolences may be left for family at www.fishercheneyfuneralhome.com.