News Summary
Robert Jack Higdon, an esteemed veteran and family man, passed away at 89. He is remembered for his service in the U.S. Navy, commitment to family, and contributions to his community. Higdon played a significant role in the recovery of early astronauts and later pursued a successful career in chemistry and textiles. His legacy lives on through his family and community involvement.
Greenville, South Carolina – Robert Jack Higdon, a dedicated family man and veteran, passed away at the age of 89 on July 7, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of service, commitment to family, and faith.
Born on July 28, 1935, in Campbell County, Tennessee, Higdon was one of six children raised in a nurturing environment. He enjoyed a vibrant upbringing in a picturesque valley and shared cherished moments with two cousins who were raised alongside him. After attending LaFollette High School, he became part of the school’s first undefeated football team, boasting an impressive record of 11-0 while outscoring their opponents 432 to 57.
Higdon went on to study at the University of Tennessee before transferring to East Tennessee State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry in 1958. His educational journey led him to the Naval Officers Candidate School, where he focused on engineering, gunnery, leadership, and warfare. In December of the same year, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy.
During his naval service, Higdon completed cryptographic and sonar schools, later being assigned to the Project Mercury Astronaut Recovery Team based at the U.S. Naval Base in Barbados. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Elizabeth (Liz) Shelby, in August 1959, shortly before his assignment in Barbados. As a part of the recovery team, he played a vital role in retrieving the United States’ first astronauts, including Alan Shepard and Gus Grissom. His original 40-month tour was extended to 46 months due to the political tensions from the Berlin Wall, and he attained the rank of Lieutenant before leaving the Navy in June 1962.
After military service, Higdon returned to East Tennessee to work as a chemist at the American Enka Company in Morristown. He and Liz were blessed with two sons born in 1963 and 1966. Throughout his career at American Enka, Higdon climbed the ranks, eventually becoming Departmental Superintendent while simultaneously pursuing a postgraduate degree. In 1970, he transitioned to a textile sales position in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he served significant clients and became a passionate advocate for American-made products.
Beyond his work, Higdon was an active member of the Friendly Avenue Baptist Church, where he held the roles of Sunday School Secretary and Chairman of the Preschool and Child Care Committee. In 1983, following American Enka’s acquisition by BASF, he took on the role of Director of Technical Services for the textile segment. He also served on the Board of Directors of INDA, providing assistance to hundreds of member companies in the industry.
Higdon maintained a strong connection to the community, with his sons graduating from Wake Forest University, where the family celebrated their accomplishments. His involvement in faith-based initiatives continued as he joined the First Baptist Church of Asheville and later Providence Baptist Church, taking on roles such as Deacon and volunteering in their tutoring program for struggling students.
In 1989, Higdon was transferred to Williamsburg, Virginia, where he directed BASF’s Rayon and Acrylics business. He later transitioned to overseeing the Polyester Business Unit in Charlotte, North Carolina, before becoming Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Intercontinental Polymers, Inc. His passion for family remained evident in his relationships with his two grandsons, Clay and Matt.
In 2015, Higdon and Liz moved to Greenville, South Carolina, where they cultivated a fulfilling life in their church community. He is survived by his wife of nearly 66 years, Liz, his sons Robert Jack Higdon, Jr. and John Shelby Higdon, as well as his two grandsons. Several brothers and cousins remain, alongside many beloved nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and some close family members.
The family expressed gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the medical staff at Prisma Greenville Memorial Hospital and McCall Hospice House during Higdon’s illness. A graveside service is scheduled for later this month at Woodlawn Cemetery in LaFollette, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the McCall Hospice House or the Liz and Jack Higdon Education Fund at Providence Baptist Church.
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- Robert Jack Higdon Obituary – 1450 WLAF
- February 21 Football Signings – WSPA
- Greensboro Native Becomes Top Federal Law Enforcement Official – WITN
- Greenville Man Sentenced for Cocaine Sales – WCTI12
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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