Dorothy J. Higby, loving mother, kind soul

OLEAN – Dorothy J. Higby passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Cuba Skilled Nursing Facility, with loving family by her side.

Dorothy was born in Hornell on May 7, 1930, the daughter of Claude and Genevieve Woodard. On December 15, 1973, in Westons Mills, she married Raymond F. Higby Sr., who predeceased her on March 8, 2013.

A 1949 graduate of Hornell High School, after moving to the area, she went to work for the Olean Times Herald. She enjoyed polka, square dancing, and crocheting.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Jane (Jack) Sweatland of Bradford, PA., Scott Harris of Bradford, PA., and Honor (David) Fries of Cuba, NY.; five grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Gerald (Janet) Woodard of Ballston Spa, NY.

She was predeceased by her husband, Raymond Sr.; her parents, Claude and Genevieve; infant son and daughter, Phillip D. Harris and Victoria L. Harris; and siblings, Claude R. Woodard, Ann Crippen, and Harold Woodard.

A graveside service will be held for Dorothy on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11 am at Allegany Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean, NY 14760

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com