Lois Elaine Higgins, age 61, passed away unexpectedly in Appleton on October 28, 2025. She was born in Shawano on October 17, 1964, to the late Peter and Patricia (Debaker) Hoffman. After graduating from Gresham High School, she went on to earn her associate's degree in cosmetology. She worked as a cosmetologist for 30 years  at numerous establishments. Around 2013, she met the love of her life Thomas Russell and have been together ever since. Lois enjoyed hobbies like gardening and being outdoors. She especially loved cooking and sharing her dishes with everyone. Lois was an outgoing woman and made many deep connections with people in her life through her generosity. She was always able to make people smile and knew how to make others feel good about themselves. Overall, her attentiveness, care, and desire to spread joy will never be forgotten. She had a kind  soul and was giving until the very end. She will be deeply missed.

Lois is survived by: her significant other Tom Russell; her children, Erica (Steven) Fischer, Christopher Higgins and Trevor Higgins; her grandchildren, Nora and Teagan Fischer; her siblings, Carl (Debbie) Hoffman, Earl (Alicia) Hoffman, Ann Reynolds, Tony (Teri) Hoffman, Todd (Kelly) Hoffman, Janet Fausti, and John (Lisa) Hoffman. She is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She is preceded in death by: her parents Peter and Patricia Hoffman, and her brother-in-law Dan Reynolds.

A memorial Mass will be held on Friday November 7, 2025, at 1:30 pm at St. Francis Solanus Church in Gresham. Visitation will begin at noon at the church until the time of service. Inurnment will be held after the service at the church cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Appleton Medical center for their diligent care of Lois.

The family asks that all funeral attendees please wear purple attire in honor of Lois.