Donald Higgins
October 30, 1941 to July 1, 2026
Obituary
It is with deep sadness, but gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Higgins on July 1, 2026, at the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with family by his side.
Born to Gladys and Ernest Higgins, Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 60 years, Janet; his son Greg (Sandra); daughters Krista (David) and Heather (Craig); and his cherished grandchildren Kody, Rebecca, Carter, and Hanna, who were the lights of his life. He is also survived by his sister Evelyn, sisters-in- law Inez and Monique, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Don was predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Gladys Higgins; his brothers Albert, Garfield, Jack, Ross, Ches, and Clyde; and his sisters Peggy and Olive.
Raised on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Don carried immense pride in his Newfoundland roots throughout his life. As a young man, he was a dedicated member of the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB), and it brought him great joy to later watch his grandson Kody follow in his footsteps by playing in the CLB Band.
Faith was the cornerstone of Don’s life. As a longtime member of St. Thomas’ Anglican Church in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, he faithfully served his church community in many roles, including Superintendent of Sunday School, lay reader, sidesperson, member of the Anglican Synod, and President of the Men’s Service Club. His quiet leadership, unwavering faith, and servant’s heart touched countless lives.
Don found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with family, watching curling, playing softball, bringing smiles to the residents of Glenbrook Lodge as Santa Claus, and breaking into song whenever the moment inspired him. A proud Newfoundlander through and through, he cheered enthusiastically for any NHL team fortunate enough to have a Newfoundlander on its roster.
He was immensely proud of each of his grandchildren and celebrated every one of their accomplishments. They knew without question how deeply they were loved, as he often reminded them he loved them “to the moon and back.”
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nursing staff of 4B at the Victoria General Hospital, especially Destiny, Carm, Ruby, and Caries, for the exceptional care, kindness, and comfort they provided during Don’s final days.
In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 10 at 11am, St. Thomas’s Anglican Church, Military Road, St. John’s. Private family internment to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church Lads Brigade (CLB), St. John’s, NL.
Schedule
funeral
11:00am, Saturday October 10th
St. Thomas Anglican Church, Military Road - St. John's, NL
Janet and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. We have fond memories of growing up together on Bell Island. Know that we are thinking of you and send our deepest condolences.
Janet, Krista, Heather and Greg and families,
We were so sorry to learn of Don’s death. He was quite a presence at St. Thomas’ Church, as were you all in your younger days. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerest condolences.
My heart goes out to you Heather and your family on the loss of your Dad ! It’s so special that you’re bringing him back to NFLD ! Sending you big hugs and prayers your way !
So sorry for you loss Heather an Craig . And families. I did not know him but remember Canadian Tire Elizabeth Ave days him picking you up after work always so proud . I feel your pain unfortunately
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Although it’s been nearly 20 years since we worked together, I still remember the good times and the memories we shared. He was a great person to work with, and l’m grateful our paths crossed.
Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace
Heather, Craig and family
So sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. We have fond memories of him.
Roy and Karen Morgan
So sorry to learn of Don’s passing. Both Fraser and I knew Don through St. Thomas’s Church. RIP Don.
Bob Kirby
on behalf of Mom- Sadie Kirby
My Condolences to Don’s Family and Friends, may he R.I.P 🙏
I’m so sorry to hear of Me. Higgen’s passing. He trained me as a lay reader and we had services at St. Luke’s Chapel together. He was a kind man and very generous with his time. May he rest in peace.
Janet and family.
I was saddened to learn that Don had passed. We spent much time working on behalf of DAMA and he had an extensive knowledge of the workings of DAMA. I really appreciated his assistance during my terms as president of the association.
Sincerely, Arch Herridge
To Janet and family, on behalf of The Diocesan
Anglican Men’s Association (DAMA), which Don was a valued and much respected member for many years, please accept our sincere condolences on his passing, may be rest in God’s peace. God Bless.
Sincere sympathy to Janet and family in your time of loss.
My deepest condolences to Don’s family. We first met in the early sixtys in a raging snowstorm on Bell Island while both of us were waiting for the ferry back to Portugal Cove.It was canceled and Don was helpful in my getting settled somewhere for the night.A very kind considerate man.We ran into each other few times over the years.I never forgot his kindness to me that wintery night
.RIPDon.
My condolences to Don’s family. We were treated like Queens when Mom (Florence) and I went to NFLD. Janet and Don were the best Hosts; from the amazing meals they served us, the many laughs and Dons never ending teasing he gave me. Don and Janet took us for many drives, to many corners of NFLD. He was proud to show us many sights, which we in turn, showed our loved ones. He is truly missed. RIP Don