Gerlinde Higginbotham

Gerlinde Higginbotham, aged 70, passed away in Columbus, Ohio on November 8, 2024. Born on October 30, 1954, Gerlinde devoted her life to the service of others, both as a licensed social worker and through her longstanding association with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, where she served with distinction from 1994 until her passing.

Gerlinde graduated from East High School (1972), Capital University B.S.W. (1976), and The Ohio State University M.A. (1986). As a social worker, her career was marked by compassion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the less fortunate.

She is survived by her loving partner, David Black Sr.; close family friends David Black Jr. and Amy Colborn; beloved Washington D.C. cousins Arizenia (Johnnie) Graham, Joyce Graham, and Tiana Yullie; Columbus, OH cousins Douglas Higginbotham and Darryl Higginbotham; and a host of other relatives and friends. Special mentions include her lifelong mentors and best friends Lela Boykin, Barbara Hanson, Sue Hagedorn and Cindi Stickley, as well as her loving, supportive Slate Hallow neighbors Ty & Angela Higgins and Greg & Sarah Miller. Her parents, Ernestine and Ulyess R. Higginbotham, preceded her in death. Gerlinde's hobbies included anything related to Mickey & Minnie Mouse, traveling, and gardening.

The celebration of Gerlinde's life will be held at the Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Home at 1370 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43205:

Thursday, 12/12/2024 : 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm (Viewing) and 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm (Funeral)