Dorothy June Higbee

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Dorothy June Higbee, on February 21, 2026, at the age of 90. Dorothy was born on November 1, 1935, in Rigby, Idaho, to Glate Sheldon Harris and Nellie Josephine Beckstrand. She was one of five siblings, with two sisters, Betty Bessey and Barbara Albrecht, and two brothers, Glate and Bobbie Harris.

At the age of 11, Dorothy’s family relocated to Sunnyside, Washington. There, she became actively involved in the church and primary, where she developed a lifelong testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ and His restored church. Dorothy’s strong work ethic emerged early; in sixth grade, she began her first job, rising at 5 a.m. to cut asparagus. She also picked cherries and grapes during the summer months and continued working in the fields throughout her school years.

After graduating from high school in Sunnyside, Washington, Dorothy earned a scholarship to attend Brigham Young University (BYU), where she studied elementary education. During her time at BYU, she met and fell in love with her eternal companion, Richard Eugene Higbee. They were married on September 11, 1956, in the Salt Lake Temple.

Following their studies at BYU, Dorothy and Richard moved to Fontana, California, where they welcomed five children into their family. Dorothy dedicated her life to serving her family, her church, and her community. She found joy in gardening, sewing, and was known as a fabulous cook. Dorothy also enjoyed genealogy research and was compassionate and caring for those in need.

Dorothy is survived by her husband, Richard Eugene Higbee; her daughters, Sherri Miller of Redlands, California, and Cindy Welch Smith of Reno, Nevada; and her sons, Cory of Draper, Utah, Todd of South Jordan, Utah, and Aaron of Leesburg, Virginia. She is survived by 18 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

A Viewing will be held on March 6th at Larkin Mortuary in Riverton, from 6 pm to 8 pm. The family will be having a private graveside Saturday morning. A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 7th, at Larkin Mortuary in Riverton, from 11 am to 12 pm. A luncheon will then follow at the same location; family is welcome.