HIGGINS, Elizabeth Ann age 85, dance teacher, passed away on Monday, Feb. 4, 2008, at home. She was born on May 26, 1922, in Louisville, KY. After high school and extensive dance training, Miss Betsy joined the Ringling Brothers Circus and worked with the famed acrobatic group the Maxello's. While working with the Maxello's, the group performed in the movie "Incendiary Blonde" with Betty Hutton and Charles Ruggles. Miss Betsy's character had the atypical task of kicking Betty Hutton, the star, in the seat of the pants. She also worked with Hubert Dyer, and was shot out of a cannon. During WWII, she performed with Bob Hope and Jerry Colona in USO shows. She danced with the Merriel Abbott dancers in Chicago. After an illustrious stage career, she settled down to teach dancing. Over a forty year career, she owned studios in Hinsdale, IL, La Grange, IL, Solon, OH, St. Petersburg, FL, and Crystal River, FL. A month prior to her death, she was still teaching dance in Tallahassee. She was a lifetime member of Dance Masters of America. Miss Betsy was dearly loved by all who knew her. Her warmth and generosity inspired hundreds of students. Many of her students emulated her by opening their own studios and teaching dance. By her example, she encouraged people of all ages to continue using dance and movement to improve the quality of their lives. She is preceded in death by her older brother Martin Roth, and her parents, Lester and Elizabeth Roth. She is survived by her husband, Arnold Higgins; daughter, Pamela Lovell; and grandson, Jeffrey Phillips; her stepson, Richard Widmer; stepdaughters, Susan Rose and Margie Johnson and their families; numerous loving cousins and extended family. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008, at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Tallahassee, FL. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been created in memoriam. Donations may be contributed to Florida Dance Masters Scholarship Fund in care of Ronnie's Academy of Dance, 1598 North Meadowcrest Boulevard, Crystal River, FL. Bevis Funeral Home/850-385-2193