John P. Higgins

John P. Higgins, of the Bedford, Massachusetts and West Palm Beach, Florida passed peacefully at his Florida home on Friday, July 21, 2023. He was 92.

John was born on July 2, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts to Thomas and Ellen (Cryan) Higgins. He grew up in Bedford and received his education at Lexington High School. After graduating from high school with distinction, John answered the call of duty and proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, John furthered his education to become an accomplished lawyer. He earned his undergraduate degree from Boston College and completed his legal studies at Suffolk Law School.

Embarking on a career path in law, John honed his skills by working with various local firms until he gained enough experience to establish his own practice. Driven by a deep desire to help others, John found great fulfillment in assisting individuals through the legal system. His perseverance and dedication paved the way for a successful career that spanned decades. Even in retirement, John generously shared his legal expertise to guide friends in need. His contributions extended beyond individual cases as he actively participated in organizations such as LCL and ILAA - institutions close to his heart due to the positive impact they had on his friends and colleagues in the profession, as well as himself.

John's love for sports ignited during his high school years when he played hockey. He carried this passion throughout his life as an unwavering fan of Boston College Hockey and Football teams. Alongside his beloved wife of 44 years, Nancy (Bright) Higgins, he also enjoyed exploring new destinations through travel. The family looked forward to summers in Humarock where cherished memories were created during joyous family gatherings. After retiring in 2007, John and Nancy embraced a newfound chapter of life, spending more time in Florida until ultimately acquiring a second home there.

Always eager to expand his knowledge, John considered staying informed about current events essential and placed equal importance on understanding history. His leisure time was spent delving into history books, immersing himself in educational documentaries and reading the Boston Globe, especially the obituary section which he jokingly referred to as the Irish sports pages.

John will forever be remembered as a beloved husband, a devoted father, an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather. To all those who had the honor of knowing him, he will be deeply missed. His generous spirit touched the lives of countless others.

In addition to his wife Nancy A. (Bright) Higgins, he leaves his children Robert Higgins of Fort Fairfield, Maine, Michael Higgins (Sandy) of North Attleborough, John ‘Jack’ Higgins (Beth Feldmen) of Fairview, New York, Kathleen  Higgins of Ayer, Maureen Robertson of Methuen, Heather Cormier of Belmont and Heidi Phaneuf (Jeff) of Canton: his grandchildren Andrea, Nathan, Kenton, Louis, Molly and Shannon Higgins, Elicia and Michelle Robertson, Sophie and Harry Cormier, and Nicole and Thomas Phaneuf; his great-grandchildren Tyler, Ashley, Sarah, Jacob, Adrian, Kam’ryn and Jordan, along with many nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his son Thomas P. Higgins.

Family and friends will honor and remember John’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on Sunday, July 30th from 2 to 5 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Monday morning before leaving in procession to Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church, 880 Trapelo Road, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Shawsheen Cemetery, Bedford.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to Children’s International 2000 E. Red Bridge Road, P.O. Box 219055, Kansas City, MO 64121 or Hurley House C/O MHSA Distribution Services 108 Clematis Ave, Bld. C #3 Waltham, MA.