Mickey Higgins

Mickey Higgins, a beloved teacher and coach at Greene County Tech for over two decades, passed from this life on April 24, 2024, in his hometown of Paragould, Arkansas. Born on January 13, 1952, to the late V.L. and Maxine Higgins, Mickey graduated from Paragould High School in 1970, where he was a three-sport letterman, football team captain, student council officer, "Mr. Paragould High School", and recipient of the Ted Rand Sportsmanship Award. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Studies and Master of Science degree in Secondary School Administration, with certifications in Coaching, Curriculum Specialist, and Global Studies, all from Arkansas State University. Mickey dedicated his life to educating and guiding students in the early years of their lives.

Throughout his career, Mickey instilled knowledge and values in countless young minds, leaving a lasting impact on the community he served. His passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom as he also coached and mentored students, embodying the principles of dedication and perseverance. He was passionate about politics and history. He encouraged his students to register to vote, and he even provided means for them to register while they attended his class.

Outside of his professional life, Mickey found joy in simple pleasures. He had a love for golf and spent peaceful hours tending to his garden, particularly enjoying planting tomatoes. He also had a strong distaste for weeds, and he made sure he removed them all from his garden before they could wreak havoc on his vegetables. A history enthusiast, he found solace in reading and had a deep-rooted loyalty to the Cardinals and Razorbacks, evident from his first date with Suzanne at a Razorback football game in 1996. They united in marriage on March 21, 2009.

In 2010, Mickey ran for a seat in the United States Congress. As a "write-in" candidate, he received several thousand votes. He and Suzanne traveled the district sharing his interests in wanting to make a difference in our country.

In his memory, Mickey leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. He is survived by his loving spouse, Suzanne Higgins; children, Amber (Chase) Connor of Atlanta, Georgia and Christopher Higgins of Macon, Georgia; stepchildren, Brian (Holli) Shiro of Golden, Colorado, Elizabeth (Matthew) Retherford of Rolla, Missouri, and Natalie White of Saint Peters, Missouri; grandchildren, Caleb and Noah Connor, Lilah Katherine Higgins, Hana and Isla Shiro, Reagan and Cullen Retherford, Landon and Olivia White, and Jacob Dwyer; sister, Carol (Larry) Elmore; his beloved pets, Sandy, Archie, and Bit; and several nephews and nieces.

Mickey was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lynn Cline.

A funeral service to honor Mickey's life will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 1:00 pm presided over by Bro. Howard Huddle and Rev. Dane Womack, at Heath Funeral Home. A visitation will be from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. Burial will follow in Finch Cemetery. Pallbearers are Scott Bowlin, Scott Gerrish, Jeff Wood, Sam McHaney, Christopher Higgins, and Evan Elmore. Honorary pallbearers are Larry Elmore, Brian Shiro, Matt Retherford, and Chase Connor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Mickey Higgins Athletic Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be dropped off at the Greene County Tech High School principal's office.

Let us join together in remembrance of a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering spirit. Mickey's presence will forever remain in our hearts as we gather to celebrate his life and legacy.