Opal Elizabeth Higginbotham, a beloved mother, grandmother, and pioneering spirit, was born on May 21, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama. She departed this life peacefully on January 9, 2025, in Oneonta, Alabama, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and determination that will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched.

Opal was the cherished daughter of Emory and Melba Viola Kennedy Holcomb. She grew up in a close-knit family and was preceded in death by her parents, along with her sons James Emory, Richard, and Roy Higginbotham, as well as her sisters Imogene H. Dye and Mable Holcomb, and her brother George "Bud" Holcomb. Despite the heartbreak of losing her loved ones, Opal remained a beacon of resilience and hope for her family.

She is survived by her sons Eddie and Dennis Higginbotham, her daughters Rebecca Harris (Perry) and Melba Jackson, and her beloved sisters Mildred McCulloch and Shirley Daley (Jerry). A proud matriarch, Opal is also mourned by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family members, all of whom she adored deeply.

Opal's journey through life was marked by her pioneering spirit. In a time when women's roles were often limited, she bravely became the first woman coal miner in the state of Alabama. Her determination to break barriers was further exemplified when she worked diligently, doing leather work to fund her education for this challenging career. In addition to her groundbreaking work in the mines, Opal dedicated over 20 years to serving as an agent for Primerica Life Insurance Company. Her unwavering work ethic and commitment to her family were evident in everything she did.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Opal had a rich tapestry of hobbies and interests. She found joy in growing flowers and admiring their beauty, often capturing moments through photographs. Yet, her greatest joy came from her family. Opal was a devoted grandmother, and her love for her grandchildren was boundless. She often spoke of them with pride, cherishing every moment spent together.

A funeral service to honor Opal's remarkable life will be held on Tuesday January 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Blount County/Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel, located at 17885 State Highway 160 in Cleveland, Alabama. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 AM before the service. Bro. Eddie Tawbush and Bro. Kevin Key will officiate, and Opal will be laid to rest in Bethlehem Cemetery. Her pallbearers will include Christian Tinker, David Cowan, Charles Cowan, Wesley Bullard, Brandon Swan, Nathaniel Cowan, Ben Harris, and Justin Lee.

Opal Elizabeth Higginbotham leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and perseverance. As we gather to celebrate her life, we remember not only the challenges she overcame but also the indomitable spirit that she shared with us all. She will be greatly missed, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Blount County/Cleveland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.