John J. Higgins Sr.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Our beloved father, John J. Higgins, Sr., made his way to heaven on Feb. 21, 2023 after a lengthy illness. His courage and positive attitude will sustain us all. His life came full circle, passing away at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center, a few blocks from the house where he was born.

John was the sixth of eight children, born to James and Annette (Carbonneau) Higgins on July 17, 1933. After graduating from Providence College, he married Shirley A. Foley. He then began his 30-year career with Kraft Foods. Each promotion would mean a move for the family (Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, and Maine). Six children were born along the way, finally settling in Yarmouth, Maine. After retiring, they moved to Santa Maria, Calif. and eventually back to Rhode Island to be closer to family.

He enjoyed many hobbies including family get togethers, cards, gardening and fishing. He always had a ready joke and kept us all laughing.

He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley, and six of his brothers and sisters. He is survived by his sister, Anne Hanewich of Cape Cod, Mass.; as well as by his six children, Mary Anne Hildreth (partner, Michael Lyons), Kathleen Del Sesto (husband, Andrew), John J. Higgins, Jr. (wife, Andrea), Karen Amaral (husband, James), William Higgins (wife, Jodi), and Anne Marie Higgins. He will also be missed by his nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and his loving companion, Bernice (Jo) Pagliarini.

“Be Charitable, it’s Tuesday,” was his motto for any day of the week. His patience and positivity will be remembered. So, when you think of our dad, please remember to be charitable to others.

Visiting hours will be held 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. on Feb. 27, 2023 at Anderson Winfield Funeral Home in Greenville, RI, followed by a funeral mass 10 a.m. at St. Philip Church also in Greenville, RI. A graveside interment at Riverside Cemetery in Yarmouth will be held in the spring.

To read a full obituary, please visit: http://www.andersonwinfield.net

In lieu of flowers,

the family asks that donations be made to:

HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center where Dad received care with dignity and compassion