HUGGINS, Charles R.

Charles R. Huggins, 64, leader of the Arizona AFL-CIO from 1987 through 2002, died Aug. 5 [2003]. He was an Air Force veteran and when he returned to Globe, he began his union service as a member of Local 518 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He served as foreman, general foreman, and instructor of apprentices and business agent for I.B.E.W. He served on the board of directors of Gila General Hospital and created Ensuring Opportunity Coalition, a beacon of hope and opportunity for underemployed and dislocated workers. He was instrumental in the creation of the Arizona Workers Memorial on the grounds of the state capital which was dedicated in 1999. The statue honors Arizona workers who died or were seriously injured on the job. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Huggins of Phoenix; one daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Phillip Hubbard; and two grandchildren. Funeral service for Mr. Huggins was conducted Aug. 9 at First Christian Church of Tempe. Interment was in Resthaven Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to Valley Cathedral Christian School, 6225 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012. The donations will be used for a computer center.