Deacon David Higgins, who served at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, died suddenly Jan. 21.

A member of OLPH since 1966, Deacon Higgins was ordained to the permanent diaconate in 1987. He helped to start the religious education program there, and continued to serve in the area of adult education.

In addition to his ministry to the church, Deacon Higgins, a Chicago native, held a doctorate degree and was a teacher and professor from 1952-1997. He initiated the philosophy department at the University of West Georgia, serving as chairperson, and taught until his retirement in 1997.

On the Friday before his death, Deacon Higgins and his wife, Adora, renewed their wedding vows in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary.

His funeral Mass was to be held Thursday, Jan. 25, at OLPH with internment to follow at the parish cemetery.