Ronald W. Higby

CONSTABLEVILLE - Ronald Ward Higby, 93, a lifelong resident of Crofoot Hill Road, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 6th, 1931 at the Higby Homestead, a son of Clark G. and Charlotte Klett Higby. Ronald received his education at Constableville Central School where he enjoyed reading and playing baseball. As a young man, he helped with the family’s country store and farm. 

On October 12, 1952, Ronald was united in marriage with Regina Ward. They settled on the Higby Farm on Crofoot Hill Road where they worked together to build the farm into a thriving business that they could be proud of. Together they started a family and created a legacy of love and unwavering commitment to each other and to their children. Their home was filled with warmth and laughter as they welcomed seven children, Marilyn Boston, Toronto, Ontario, Martha Faber, Boonville, Marsha Higby, Utica, Mark (Jolene) Higby, Constableville, Marlene (Dana) Arnold, Barneveld, Marie (Kim Kert) Higby, Columbus, Ohio, Melanie (Eric) Niermeyer, Vestal. With much love, they raised their children on the family farm as they instilled the values of hard work, integrity and perseverance. They were blessed with 10 grandchildren, Adam (Silvia Kissova) Boston, Ethan (Jodi) Boston, Amanda (Devin Galler) Scholl, Heather (Vince) Bourgeois, Mark T. (Kim) Higby, Leanne (Aarron) Weaver, Patrick (Mollie) Wadsworth, Christopher (Zettie) Wadsworth, Alex (Alicia Kasson) Niermeyer and Lucas Niermeyer, as well as 13 great grandchildren.

Ronald was Co-Owner and Operator of the Higby Brothers Dairy Farm for many years along with his brother John, and later with his son, Mark as well. Throughout the years, they expanded and modernized the farm. Ronald and John installed one of the first milking parlors and free stall barns in the area. The Higbys took great pride in producing high quality milk that earned recognition from several farm organizations, with the farm being designated a Dairy of Distinction.

Ronald enjoyed spending time with his family, especially during the annual cider making weekend. He also enjoyed antique cars, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and bird watching. One of his proudest achievements was building a log cabin from the ground up, a testament to his determination and craftmanship. From clearing the land, cutting and peeling the logs, to finishing the interior with meticulous tongue and groove details, he created an enduring treasure for his family. 

Upon his death, Ronald is now reunited with his wife of nearly 60 years, Regina Ward Higby who predeceased him in 2012. He was also predeceased by his brother John Higby and sisters Ruth Pledger and Betty Crane. He is survived by many nieces and nephews, and especially enjoyed his many visits from niece, Sandy Crane.

Ronald was deeply loved by his seven children. All of them made frequent trips to the farm to visit and assist in any way they could. Martha, in particular, provided extraordinary care and companionship, living with Ronald through his later years after the loss of Regina. She showed great dedication in ensuring his comfort and well-being and was a support to the entire family. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Martha and to Ronald’s additional dedicated caregivers, Kim Tanner, Toni Newman and Todd Brosemer. The family truly appreciates their kind and compassionate care, which was a blessing to Ronald and the whole family. The family would also like to thank Lewis County Hospice staff members for the kindness, comfort and support that they offered during Ronald’s final days.

Arrangements are in the care of Trainor Funeral Home. A service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, January 17th at 11:00am with a luncheon to follow at the VFW, 108 Park Avenue, Boonville. In keeping with Ronald’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to the Constableville Volunteer Fire Company, Meals on Wheels, Lewis County Hospice, or the charitable organization of your choice. For an online message of sympathy or to share a memory of Ronald, please go to www.trainorfuneralhome.com.

Food donations may be dropped off at the VFW after 8:30am on Friday.