By Isle of Wight Observer
A unique tribute marked the recent funeral of Edward “Ted” Higgin at the Island Crematorium, as an iconic red and green Seaview Services bus led his final procession.
Ted, fondly remembered for his dual careers as a theatre technician at Ryde Hospital and a part-time bus driver for Seaview Services, passed away at the age of 85.
The Higgin family’s connection to Seaview Services runs deep. Ted’s father, John Higgin, owned and operated the company until his retirement in 1980 , and Ted’s early years were spent cleaning and tending to the fleet before taking the wheel himself. The service operated out of Seafield Garage in Seaview, with its buses in distinctive red and green livery connecting Seaview with Ryde and providing tours to holiday makers.
For Ted’s final journey, the Isle of Wight Bus Museum ensured an fitting tribute. A preserved Seaview Services bus that Ted used to drive, now part of the museum’s collection, proudly led the hearse from Ryde to the crematorium. The bus was then parked up in the sun for the mourners to appreciate, bringing back fond memories of Ted’s dedication to the service.Ted’s daughter Lynn said: “Our family would like to extend their grateful thanks to the amazing volunteers at the Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum that gave their time to make this happen, including Mike who drove the bus and, Graeme and Leo who acted as banksmen.”
The museum’s finance officer, Shirley Winn, said the team was delighted to help give Ted a special send off. “Volunteers gave the vehicle a special clean and made sure she was fit to fulfil this very important request, She added. “Our grateful thanks go to Ted’s family for their kind donation and thank you cards we received.”
