Clarence Higgs Jr. Batts

Mr. Clarence Higgs Batts Jr., also known to the family as Smokey, was born February 27, 1957, to the late Clarence Higgs Sr. and Glady Lee Edwards. Smokey peacefully departed this earthly life on Saturday, November 4, 2023, as God called him to eternal rest. Smokey was raised in Newark, NJ, where he attended Waverly Avenue School, West Kinney Jr. High School, and West Side High School In his younger years, Smokey was a member of the Deliverance Center Church, under the pastor of Rev Skinner, where he sang in the choir. Smokey enjoyed cooking and singing in the glee club. He also performed in talent shows. Smokey spent his weekend with family, and his mother would take them out for dinner and movies in the city of New York. Smokey talents came from his mother, who loved to cook and have parties for the family. Smokey worked with various companies. His compassion was shown as an EMT and in his drive to better the community as a bus driver. Smokey continued to show his personality through his hardworking work ethic. Smokey and Ron took their vows in 1982 and married to be one. Smokey and Ron relocated to the south where they found their final home in Smyrna, Georgia. Ron and Smokey continued their life through love and found happiness with one another by implementing travel and worship. The two would become members of the Camden County Georgia ministry under the minister Pastor James Ham. Smokey is preceded in death by sister Janet Pierce, brother Charles Lee, and sister Romona Lee. Smokey leaves to cherish his husband Ronnie Batts, brother Carl Lee, and sisters Maryann Lee and Roxanne Lee along with a host of loving nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.