CLAY-Sonja E. Lea Higman, formerly of Carthage, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at her home in Clay, NY, under the compassionate care of her loving family, and Hospice.

Born on December 5, 1940, in Ogdensburg, NY, Sonja was the daughter of the late James and Eunice (White) Cryderman. She graduated from Lisbon Central School with the class of 1958 and continued her education at business school in Watertown, graduating in 1959. On July 29th, 1961, she married Merle Patrick Higman at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Watertown. The couple lived at 725 Elm Street for many years before moving to Clay in 2004.

Sonja dedicated her professional life to secretarial roles, beginning her career at Black Clawson in Watertown, NY. She also served the Carthage School District for over 10 years before retiring from the Carthage Augustinian Academy.

Sonja's greatest pride was taking care of and nurturing her family.  The proud mother and grandmother was always there when called upon. Providing a kind word and advice when necessary to guide her family through lives trials.

She is survived by her children, Ann (Douglas) Felton, Lakewood CO; Joan (Christopher) Upton, Hettinger, ND; two sons and their wives, Lee and Marion and John and Susan, all of Baldwinsville; a sister in law, Maureen Higman, Baltimore MD. Grandchildren, Marc and Leah Felton, Danny (Heather) Upton, Molly (Pat) Cost, Elizabeth (Colin) Conklin, Thomas and Jack Higman. Great Grandchildren, Briley and Bridger Upton.  As well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

Sonja was a snowbird for over 20 years, spending time in North Myrtle Beach, where she made many friends enjoying the sun and surf.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. James Catholic Church, 327 West Street, Carthage, NY, at 11am on Saturday 11/15/25 with The Rev. Todd E. Thibault officiating. The family will be available for condolences at the church at 10am before the mass.  A private family burial will be in the New St. James Cemetery, located on South James Street, Carthage, NY.

Sonja is predeceased by her parents, and her husband Merle Patrick Higman on April 25, 2008.

Donations in her memory can be made to Hospice of CNY, 990 7th North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088, or to your favorite charity.

Arrangements are being handled by the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home, 518 State Street, Carthage, NY 13619. To leave a condolence in Sonja's memory, please visit www.bezanillafh.com.