Your Silent Neighbor
by David K. Leff
Canton Town Historian

Although born in North Canton, Loyal Higley (1868-1919) moved to his home on Canton Springs Road at about one year of age. Decades later he died there of complications from diabetes. He was a dealer in livestock and beef, a business that “called him to deal with those of all nationalities and also over a wide territory of the surrounding vicinity,” according to a newspaper account. He was said to have “an unusual sunny and jovial nature.” Another report noted that “he made friends wherever he went.”

Higley was a member of the Canton Baptist Church and served as its clerk and a member of the choir. He had a remarkable connection to the number thirteen, having been born and then dying on that date of the month. He was also one of thirteen to join the Canton Baptist Church on the Sunday he became a member.

In 1891, Higley married Caroline Rexroth of Canton. The couple had no children. She could not attend his funeral due to an illness that left her confined to her room.

Reverend C. K. Flanders conducted the funeral at the Baptist Church and gave a solo rendition of “The Land of the Unsetting Sun.” The church was filled to capacity.

Loyal Higley is buried in the Canton Springs Cemetery on Canton Springs Road.


“Your Silent Neighbors” introduces readers to people out of Canton’s past.  Readers are encouraged to visit these gravesites and pay their respects to the people who have helped make our community what it is today.