Ernest Banner Higgins, 54 of Farmville, went peacefully to sleep at home with his wife and woke up in Paradise with his Lord and Savior on July 3, 2016. He was a loving son, husband, father and friend to whomever he met. He was born January 26, 1962 at Southside Hospital in Farmville, to the late James E. Higgins and Alice Asal Higgins of Farmville.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 19 years, Laura Vance Higgins; a daughter, Kayla Arleen Higgins; three brothers, Joseph Allen Higgins of Farmville, James E. Higgins Jr. of Crewe and William R. Higgins of IN; two nephews, James E. Higgins III and Steven Ashley Higgins; his niece, Julia Lauren Higgins; aunt, Cordelia L. Higgins; uncle, Paul Asal and numerous cousins.

He was a devoted employee of Farmer’s Cooperative for 11 years. His first love was his fertilizer truck. He loved his job, his coworkers and his farmers. His farm has housed many hogs, pigs and rescue animals that he loved and cared for in his spare time. He was always there for anyone with a helping hand held out.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, July 10 at 4 p.m. at Puckett Funeral Home. Family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Randolph Fire Department, 2145 Cumberland Road, Farmville, VA 23901 or a charity of your choice.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com