Obituary of Robert E. Higby

ALLEGANY - Robert E. Higby, 88, of 3282 Maple Ave., passed away Tuesday (Feb. 9, 2021) at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born April 21, 1932, in Allegany, he was the son of Theodore and Edith Smith Higby. On Jan. 5, 1952, in Rochester, he married Beverly Moran, who predeceased him Dec. 24, 2004. Bob attended Allegany Central School and began working at an early age for the Pennsylvania Railroad. He then began working as a mechanic for several area auto garages, including Carl Schultz Texaco Station, Al Johnson Garage and then Jones Automotive. He later worked as a truck driver for Boss Linco for 19 years, then Penn Yann Trucking (later CEX) for two years, and lastly for Yellow Transportation Co. in Olean prior to his retirement in 1994. He was a former volunteer for the Allegany Engine Co., enjoyed square dancing with his wife and he was a NASCAR fan. He took pride in maintaining his home and property, and was always willing to help others with handyman projects. He is survived by four children, Deborah (Gary) Layton of Breesport, Christopher Higby of Olean, Jodi Williams of Allegany and Robert (Jennifer) Higby of Allegany; seven grandchildren, Jay Layton, Kristen Crawford, Erin Truman, Heather Eaton, Robert Higby III, Bailey Higby and Kaitlyn Higby; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a grandson, Brian Williams in 1981; and a brother, David Higby in 2019. At Bob's request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Burial will be done privately by the family. Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Allegany Rescue and EMS, Inc., P.O. Box 217, Allegany, NY 14706; or to the Allegany Engine Co., 188 W. Main St., Allegany, NY 14706. Arrangements are under the direction of the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.