Recently, our community lost Richard Higgins. For those who knew him, Richard’s passing leaves a quiet, but noticeable gap in our collective civic life. He was a man who showed up, not just once in a while, but consistently, determinedly, and with both a dogged purpose and a graceful respect.

Richard attended meetings, asked hard questions, and in doing so, held our local leaders accountable. Sometimes that meant pushing us to think more creatively, to explain ourselves more fully, and/or to be able to justify publicly why a decision was made. He didn’t do it for attention or recognition. That was never Richard’s style. He did it because he cared about our area and believed in the responsibility we all share to make it better.

As anyone who has ever shown up to a local governmental meeting quickly finds out, it’s not always glamorous. Or ever glamorous, truth be told. It can mean sitting through long discussions, listening with an enormous amount of patience, or asking a question that others might be too shy to raise. But believe me when I tell you that it matters. When people show up and speak out, they remind us all that democracy is not a spectator sport. Civic life thrives only when people are willing to give their time, voices, and presence.

I see that same spirit in so many corners of our county. From neighbors gathering to raise money for a friend with cancer, to families filling the square for special events, to parents cheering in the bleachers when their kids play in their first soccer match, showing up is how we demonstrate pride in who we are and how we present to everyone else. Big or small, showing up is built into the definition of our community.

Richard modeled that for us. He frequently reminded us that leaders make better decisions when the people we serve are engaged. He also reminded us that attending a meeting or asking a hard question is not about conflict. It is about making sure all voices are heard. That kind of accountability strengthens our systems for everyone. And from personal experience, it helps to build us into better leaders. I know it did me.

As we remember Richard, let’s take his lesson to heart. Let’s keep showing up. Attend a council or board meeting. Volunteer at an event. Support a neighbor. Sit in the stands and cheer. Speak up when something matters. Our presence signals that we care, and our care makes Webster County stronger.

Richard Higgins may no longer be with us, but the example he set remains. May we honor him not just with words, but with action. When we show up, we do not just fill a seat. We help shape the future of our community.

Niki Conrad is the chairwoman of the Webster County Board of Supervisors.