January 6, 1959 – August 25, 2026
With heavy hearts, we, the family of Patricia Eileen Higgins, announce her unexpected passing on August 25, 2026, at her home. Patty was born January 6, 1959, in Saint John, New Brunswick, the eldest daughter of the late Thomas J. Higgins and Dorothy A. (nee MacDonald) Higgins.
Patty spent her life caring for others. Whether it was at CentraCare, St. Joseph’s Hospital, or her many years as a home support worker, her empathy and compassion for her clients was unsurpassed. She always stepped up to help our parents and other family members in times of need. We are eternally grateful for her tremendous love and support. Patty was community-minded and served as Saint John City Councillor from 2008 to 2012, serving on many committees, including Friends of Rockwood Park. She was a strong advocate for social justice and the disadvantaged. Patty was an athlete and strong competitor, excelling in basketball, volleyball, touch football, rugby, curling, broomball, and softball, highlighted by ranking 4th in batting average at softball nationals. She lived life on her terms; independent, determined, compassionate, environmentally conscious. Patty was a nature and animal lover (raised several rescue dogs and cats), was well- read, and had a great sense of humour. She shared a special bond with her nieces and nephews, who were drawn to her genuine warmth and natural ability to connect with and engage them. Her caring nature extended into her work with senior clients, where she treated each person with kindness, patience, dignity, and sincere compassion. She took the time to get to know those she cared for and formed meaningful connections that went far beyond her professional role. She was deeply loved by her family and cherished by the many people whose lives she touched.
Patty is survived by her siblings, John (Kit Hickey) of Summerville; Tom (Sue) of Saint John; Jane MacDonald (Paul) of Cambridge Narrows; Philip of Long Reach; Colleen Smith ((the late Derek) of Saint John; Karen Palmer (Mark) of Rothesay; and Mike (Kathy) of Quispamsis, brother-in-law Steve Anderson (Patti) of Kelowna, BC; fifteen beloved nieces and nephews: Cailin Higgins (Steve Russell); Bridget Higgins; Megan Anderson (Elliot Bucek); Ryan Anderson (Bailey Sinclair); Cal Robb-Higgins; Ellen Higgins (Josh Maher); Maggie Higgins-Logue (Oliver Logue); Emily Blanchard (Kyle); Matthew Smith (Jill); Sam Palmer (Caitlin Grogan); Laura Palmer (Ben Reid); Kate Palmer (Daniel Deschênes); Bailey, Luke, and Callie Higgins. Patty is also survived by much loved Uncle Bob Higgins, Aunts Sheila Higgins, and Gen MacInnis and a large number of close cousins and extended family and friends.
Patty was predeceased by her parents; sister, Kathy Anderson; brother-in-law, Derek Smith; cousin, Caroline Higgins; as well as many beloved aunts and uncles.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424). Visitation Monday, August 31 from 6pm-8pm and Tuesday, September 1 from 12pm-2pm. A service will immediately follow at Brenan’s Chapel. Interment to follow at a later date.
For those who wish, donations in Patty’s memory to the SPCA, North End Food Bank, Romero House, or charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.
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