James Trafford Higginbotham, I

James Trafford Higginbotham, I, who graced this world with his presence on November 25, 1945, in the charming town of Franklin, Tennessee, bid farewell to it on April 16, 2026. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, after a valiant and prolonged battle with cancer. James, affectionately known as Jim, was a beacon of strength and wit. A graduate of the University of Alabama, he proudly served his country in the US Coast Guard during the Vietnam War, earning an honorable discharge in 1968. He went on to dedicate over thirty years of his life to a career as an accountant with Alabama Power/Southern Company, where his precision and dedication were as admired as his kindness and camaraderie. Jim was the cherished son of the late Shirley Wright and Sarah Frances Higginbotham. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, his sister Sally, and a host of treasured family members, including his mother-in-law, Marguerite Cave, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law. He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Cave Higginbotham, who stood steadfastly by his side through all of life's ups and downs. Together, they created a loving family, blessed with two children: daughter Sarah "Sally" Marguerite Higginbotham and her sons, Blake and Cooper Elmore; and son James Trafford Higginbotham, II, his wife Lauren, and their daughters, Allison and Sarah. Jim's legacy of love and laughter will continue through his four grandchildren, who were the apples of his eye. Jim was also the beloved brother of Sonny (Shelley), Bill (Jane), Andy (Jo Anne), and Sue (Joe) Regonis. His extended family included brothers-in-law Wayne Cave (Jane), Billy Herring, and Ken Boucher, and sisters-in-law Betty Cosminsky and Barbara Cave, as well as nineteen nieces and six nephews, each of whom he adored and supported. An avid golfer and a puzzle enthusiast, Jim was a jack of all trades who found joy in helping others. Despite his self-proclaimed "bah-humbug" demeanor, he was renowned for his dry wit and the immense love he shared with those around him. His humor was a balm to those who knew him, and his kindness was a guiding light. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice, with special thanks to Kayla, Lindsey, and Cynthia, Southern Cancer Center's Dr. Uzel, and Dr. McKelvey of Springhill Physicians Practices for their compassionate care. In the words of Robin Williams, "Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always." Jim lived by this credo, and his life was a testament to the power of kindness and understanding. James Trafford Higginbotham, I will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to strength, love, and the enduring power of a gentle spirit.