Mr. Michael Higgins

Michael Blandard Higgins was born February 19, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri to the union of Bernice (Mills) and Robert Higgins, Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Chesteen “Tina” Higgins Kilgore; and a brother, Everett Clark “Butch” Higgins. He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Friendship Baptist Church. A lifelong area resident, Michael was educated in Kansas City, Missouri public schools. He graduated in the 1967 class of Central High School, where he excelled in football. After graduating, he married Bettye Morris, and to this union, one son, Jeffrey Brent Higgins, was born. The marriage was dissolved after nine years. He later met and, on December 5, 1981, married Jo Ann Crosby. To this union, one daughter, Nicole D’Ann Higgins, was born. Michael cared deeply for his family and withheld nothing he could provide to support the people he loved. Michael always took great pride in his work, from his first job at A&P, where after approaching the manager’s booth to ask if they were looking for help, he was thrilled to be told to return the next day with a white shirt and tie. He enjoyed working for the grocery store chain for 14 years until the chain closed. He worked several other jobs, from First National Bank to Bendix (later Honeywell). He retired in 2021 from Ford Motor Company after 30 years. In his time at the Claycomo plant, he developed many treasured and enduring friendships. The truest definition of a sports fanatic, Michael loved them all, but especially Chiefs and Mizzou football. He could rattle off players and stats like no one else and would happily regale you with historic game highlights. In his leisure, he also enjoyed watching television talk shows and game shows, listening to his vast music collection, and reading his newspapers. Most of all, he loved any time spent with family. Michael was a paragon of optimism, remaining full of faith and sharing his spirit of encouragement with all he encountered. On Resurrection Sunday, April 5, 2026, Michael was called home to glory. He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Jo Ann Crosby Higgins; daughter, Nicole D’Ann Higgins; son, Jeffrey Brent Higgins; brothers Paul Lester Higgins, Robert Clark “Buddy” Higgins, Jr., and Shawn Emil Higgins; sister, Robin Higgins-McCoy; brother in-law, Melvin Crosby (Narene); grandchildren Jamia Higgins, Janii Higgins, and Jalani Higgins; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, 11am at Holy Light MBC. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation from 10am - 11am at the church. Services conducted by Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.

Mr. Michael Higgins

February 19, 1949 - April 5, 2026