Jakie Edward "Eddie" Huggins

Jakie Edward “Eddie” Huggins, Sr. entered into rest on Thursday, December 24, 2020 at McLeod Regional Medical Center.He was born August 16, 1952 in Florence, SC, to the late Iva Mae Wiggins Huggins and Melton John Huggins, Sr. If you knew Eddie, then you know he had a heart for service.He led by example and devoted countless hours to the youth in our area through teaching, coaching, mentoring and volunteering with the many organizations that served those in greatest need, including foreign missions. Eddie graduated from Francis Marion University in 1974 with a degree in history and began his life-long commitment to his love of coaching and teaching at James F. Byrnes Academy in Florence.There he taught history, economics and physical education along with coaching football, track, volleyball and girls’ basketball.He also served as Athletic Director later in his tenure.He also coached at Carolina Academy in Lake City and finally, at King’s Academy in Florence, where he retired. Eddie’s service reflected his passions.He was a Deacon at Evergreen Baptist Church; worked with the Boys & Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area; Co-founder of the Camp Pee Dee Pride program; and past president of SCISAA, the South Carolina Independent School Athletic Association.He also introduced and developed the Class SCISA 8-Man High School Football Program for the state of South Carolina. Eddie was predeceased by his brother, Melton John Huggins, Jr. (Kay). Left to cherish Eddie’s memory are his wife of 47 years, Emma Hickey Huggins of Florence; his children, Jake Huggins and his wife Sue of Florence, Jennifer Andrews and her husband Jerry of Florence; his grandchildren, Payton, Mason, Jamison and Jax; his sister, Vicki Cook and her husband Ken of Rock Hill, his brother, Billy Huggins and his wife Melissa of Murrells Inlet; as well as many nieces and nephews. Due to Covid-19 the family will host a Celebration of Life at the family farm this spring for all who wish to attend. At the request of the family, memorial contributions in Eddie’s name may be made to the Boys & Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area, 310 W. Roughfork Street; Florence, SC29506.