David Michael Higginbotham, 75, of South Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on February 7, 2025, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia, with his niece Amanda and nephew Christopher by his side.

David was born on December 11, 1949, to the late Frank and Oleta Verne Simpson Higginbotham. He graduated from South Charleston High School’s Class of 1967, and he was a member of the First United Methodist Church of South Charleston.

David led a remarkable life; he spent much of his career as a general radiotelephone operator working on radio towers. His love for adventure extended underwater, where he became a master scuba instructor. Later in life, he served as a perimeter security officer for Dow and a surveillance officer for Mardi Gras Casino in Cross Lanes.

An avid outdoorsman, David found joy in fishing and hunting. He spent countless hours on the Kanawha River aboard his boat and took memorable fishing trips to Michigan where he reeled in many prized catches. His passion for history and collectibles led him to amass an impressive collection of old paper currency and rare gold and silver coins.

David deeply loved animals, especially rescue dogs, whom he cherished as constant companions. His most recent dog, Whiskers, was his faithful sidekick accompanying him on early morning walks at 3:30 AM.

He also cherished time with his niece and nephew and enjoyed traveling to his niece Amanda’s house in Thornton, West Virginia, every Thanksgiving, creating cherished holiday memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lynn Higginbotham Smith; brother-in-law, William “Bill” Smith; grandmother, Ruby Adele Simpson; uncle, Eugene “Gene” Simpson; and aunt, Ruth Simpson.

David is survived by his niece, Amanda Eliese Smith Stolzenfels of Surprise, Arizona; nephew, Christopher William Smith of Thornton, West Virginia; great-nieces Lilliam Soo Stolzenfels of Surprise, Arizona, and Madison Eliese Smith of Thornton; great-nephews Trevor William Smith of Grafton, West Virginia, and Briar Anthony Smith of Thornton, West Virginia; along with several cousins.

A graveside service to honor David’s life will be held at Glendale Cemetery on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM. He will be laid to rest beside his mother and grandmother.

Memories of David may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is assisting the family with arrangements.