1945-2026
John Thomas "Tom" Higginbotham, age 80, of Iola, Kansas, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, in Iola, Kansas.
Tom was born on March 14, 1945, in Gas City, Kansas, to Floyd and Myrtle (Adams) Higginbotham. He grew up in the Iola area and attended Allen County Community College. Tom spent over 30 years working as a custodian at Iola Middle School, where he was known for his steady work ethic, reliability, and quiet dedication to the students and staff.
On April 20, 1996, Tom married Carol (Lee) Higginbotham at LaHarpe Christian Church. They shared many years together until her passing.
Tom had a deep appreciation for classic cars and proudly purchased his memorable Corvette in 1971, a car that remained special to him throughout his life. He was a man who enjoyed the simple things: time spent with family, a good conversation, and staying busy.
He is survived by his stepchildren, Michelle Huston; Traci and husband Jerry Odell; and Jameson Sr. and wife Paula Chapman; his grandchildren, Ryan and wife Brandi Chapman, Zach Culbertson, Ashton and wife Shaylyn Culbertson, Trey Huston, Maygan Huston, Jameson Chapman Jr., and William Chapman III; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Ronnie and wife Deb Higginbotham, Doug and Kim Higginbotham, Rhonda and Rodney Smith, and Suzie Edie
Tom was preceded in death by his wife Carol Higginbotham; parents Floyd and Myrtle Higginbotham; his brothers, Jack Higginbotham and Jimmy Higginbotham; his sister, Sharon Buss; and his children, William Chapman Jr. and Mathau Chapman.
A Visitation with the family present will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at The Venue, 1883 US Highway 54, Iola, Kansas. A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Burial will follow at LaHarpe Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in his honor to A.C.A.R.F. and left in the care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Tom Higginbotham, please visit our flower store.
Interment Funeral
111 W. 15th St
La Harpe, KS 66751
Funeral Home in Charge
