Obituaries

Carol Jean Higginbotham, née Clayton, passed away on September 6, 2026, in Burlington, Kentucky, at the age of 88.

She was born on August 28, 1938, on the family farm in Macedonia, Iowa, to Walter “Buster” Clayton and Verda V. Clayton. In the 1950s, her family moved to California in search of better opportunities and to raise their family of four girls and one boy. Carol attended Whittier High School in Whittier, California, where she met John, the man who would become her husband. The two were married on March 29, 1958, beginning a long and devoted life together.

Carol was known as a kind and loving woman whose greatest pride was her family. She had a variety of jobs over the years and worked with Push and Kentucky Crushed Stone in Frankfort before going on to serve for many years with the IRS in Covington. She retired in May of 2016 at the age of 77. Outside of work, she found joy in simple pleasures and favorites that reflected her vibrant spirit, including flowers, cats, strawberries, shoes, and the color purple.

Just recently, Carol celebrated her 88th birthday in great spirits, surrounded by her three children, a moment that reflected the deep importance of family throughout her life.

She is survived by her daughter, Lynn (Pete) Krueger; her sons, Robert H. Higginbotham and John M. (Jan) Higginbotham, Jr.; and her sister, Juanna Barnes. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Brian R. (Samantha Williamson) Krueger, Logan (Jessica) Higginbotham, and Christian Higginbotham, as well as her great-grandchild, Graysen Higginbotham. She will be remembered with love by her family and by all who were blessed to know her.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Higginbotham, Sr.; her father, Walter “Buster” Clayton; her mother, Verda V. Clayton; her sisters, Barbara Barker and Vivian Stamper; and her brother, Orlan Clayton.

Visitation will be held on September 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Frankfort Cemetery, 215 E Main St, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. A graveside service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Frankfort Cemetery.

Carol Jean Higginbotham will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to her family, and the warmth she brought to those around her. Her memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who loved her.

Donations in lieu of flowers are suggested to Greater Cincinnati Alzheimer's Association.