Elita Rose Higginson

Elita Rose Higginson, 64, of Christiansburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family while holding her daughter's hand.

 Born on February 13, 1962, in Wise County, Virginia, Elita lived a life defined by unwavering faith, unconditional love, and selfless devotion to those around her. She was a devoted Christian whose greatest purpose was caring for her family. To know Elita was to know kindness, compassion, and a heart that always put others before herself. She never let a day pass without reminding those she loved that she loved them "to the moon and back."

 She found joy in life's simple blessings. She loved tending her garden, collecting coins and Matchbox cars, watching movies with her granddaughters, spending time at the beach, and making cherished memories with her family in Wise County. Since 2021, she worked at Tenneco, where she was appreciated for her dedication and hardworking spirit. 

Above all else, Elita was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she gave them the very best of herself every single day. Her legacy is one of generosity, faith, strength, and unconditional love—a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pauline Pilkington and Lee Perry; her brothers, Leroy Perry and Roger Perry; and her sister, Cathy Blanton. 

She is survived by her devoted husband, James Higginson; her daughters, Brittany Higginson and Ashley Thompson-Smith; her beloved granddaughters, Sienna Lawrence and Skilar Lawrence; her siblings, Judy Greene, Allen Perry, Eddie Perry, and Sherry Sowards; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. 

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude and recognize Elita's niece, Judy McCarver, and nephew, Jeff Blanton, whose love, care, and unwavering support helped carry her through some of her most difficult days.

 A celebration of Elita's life will be held at Horne Funeral Home in Christiansburg, Virginia, on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. A private burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery. 

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing that her faith has become sight and that she is now at peace. Her love, gentle spirit, and beautiful example of selflessness will remain with us always. We will forever love her—to the moon and back.