Obituary

Charlene Ann Higley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, November 23, 2021.

Charlene was a talented and inspirational artist with a true love not only for her family and friends, but also for God and country.

She was born February 6,1949, to John and Rosemary Magness in Los Angeles, California. Her mother told her that moments after her birth, the angles sang as she was born at sunrise in a Catholic hospital just as the nuns began to sing their morning devotional.

Charlene grew up in Southern California with her older brother, John and her younger sister, Debby (D’Lee Mayberry). From a young age, Charlene found her passion and talent for art. She was nurtured by her Aunt Margie (Margaret Olesen) in her creative endeavors.  She graduated from Harbor Jr. College in Carson, California with her Associates of Arts.

Charlene had an abiding faith in God. She was a member of Jobs Daughters, serving as Honored Queen.  She explored different religions until she found the one the truly resonated with her soul.  She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 1970.

During this time of spiritual exploration, she met and fell in love with Con Robert Higley.   Charlene and Con were married on July 25, 1970.  They raised seven children, six daughters and one son.

Throughout her life, Charlene had a deep drive and passion for art. Her influence as an art teacher and an artist will be felt for many generations. She nurtured a passion art in her children, grandchildren, and many art students.  Her last works of art were inspired by her deep love of our country and her everlasting love and faith in Christ.

Her leaving has left a hole in our hearts and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  She is survived by her eternal love and spouse Con Higley, her children Gen (Bob) Swatzell, Janette (Travis) Leonhardt, Gwen Higley, David (Marcene) Higley, Carrie (Chris) Bales, Kim Higley, and Hannah (Dale) Brimhall and her loving sister and friend Debby (Paul) Mayberry.  She is also survived by her loving sisters- and brothers-in-law Bert (Sue) Higley, Kay Holley, Scott (Judy) Higley, and Denise (Bruce) Jarvis.

Charlene will laid to rest at Mesa Cemetery.  A graveside service for family members will be held on December 1, 2021.  Her family and friends will be welcome to join in a celebration of Charlene’s life and art to be held in Apache Junction, AZ in February 2022.

Her family would like to express their appreciation to Hospice of the Valley for their kindness and compassion in the final days of her life.