LEWISTON — Melanie D. Higgins, 63, formerly of Wales, passed away Friday, Dec. 14, at Central Maine Medical Center.

She was born in Hartford, Conn., Oct. 12, 1949, to Charles and Mildred (Jewell) Parkin. She grew up and attended schools in Wales and Monmouth and was a graduate of Monmouth Academy in 1968.

She worked for many years in the carnival industry, until her retirement.

Melanie enjoyed being with her grandchildren dearly and was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister. She loved to travel with her husband around the country and world and also loved to play bingo. She was an avid New York Giants fan.

She is survived by her husband of 39 years, James Higgins of Lewiston, whom she married on Feb. 17, 1973; her mother, Mildred Parkin of Wales; her sons, Sean and Chuck Higgins, both of Lewiston; her daughter, Mary Higgins of Auburn; her grandchildren, Collin, Isabelle, Killian, Ryan and Devon; her brothers, Wayne Parkin and wife, Learna and Charlie Parkin and wife, Tammy, all of Wales; her sister, Robin Coursen and husband, Bill, of Houlton; and numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins.

The family would like to thank the ICU staff at CMMC for the exceptional care they provided for Melanie.