Darrell Thomas Higginbotham, born October 25, 1947, in Birmingham, Alabama, answered God’s final call on August 30, 2026, surrounded by those he loved. Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Darrell Higginbotham and Doris Jene Montgomery Higginbotham. He is survived by his loving family at Hughes Memorial Baptist and by a host of friends and extended family.

A proud graduate of Cleveland High School and Samford University, Darrell devoted his life to music ministry and Christian service. He studied piano and voice, sang with Samford’s renowned A Cappella Choir, and toured internationally with various musical groups. He later earned a master’s degree in Christian education from Southern Seminary and continued to use his gifts in churches and musical productions.

Darrell served as minister of music at Evans Baptist Church near Augusta, Georgia, from 1981 to 1990. After returning home to care for his mother during her battle with cancer, he served alongside his father at 25th Avenue Baptist and, beginning in 1993, faithfully served Hughes Memorial Baptist until his passing.

Darrell served his family at Hughes Memorial for more than three decades. He blessed countless lives through his music, teaching, prayer, encouragement, and love for God’s church. His life reflected the words of Christ: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

A visitation for Darrell will be held at Hughes Memorial Baptist Church on Thursday, September 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Ridout's Forest Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Allen Haynes, Billy Smith, Bryant Noles, Christopher Howell, Danny Conn, Daryl Noles, George Hughes, Gerald Mulvehill, Jeff Smith, Jesse Inman, John Kelly, Matt Hayes, Patrick Tenney, Robert Dale Barnwell, and Steve Mayes                                                                          Honorary Pallbearers: The Men of Hughes Memorial Baptist Church