In Memory of Sgt Rodney Lee Higgins, Jr. USMC
November 8, 1975 – February 24, 2017
Veteran Marine Corps Crew Chief, Presidential Helicopter Squadron
Rodney Lee Higgins, Jr., 41 of Naples, Florida died unexpectedly of Friday, February 24, 2017.Rodney was born in St. Petersburg, FL living much of his life in SW. Florida. After high school Rodney joined the U.S Marine Corps, spending eight years as crew chief and helicopter mechanic in Quantico, VA and spending one year in Japan being honorably discharged as a Sargent. After the Marines, Rodney attended Kennesaw State University and University of Alabama graduating with a Master’s degree. He had been working for Ferguson Plumbing until he began his career in health care management. He had currently been employed as Chief Financial Officer of Physician’s Regional Hospital in Naples.
Rodney loved spending time with his family, he also enjoyed running, fishing, hiking, skiing boating and
watching Alabama football. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years Carolyn (Cabana) Higgins; three young children, Michael, Kevin and Nichole; his father, Rodney Lee Higgins; his mother, Deborah Wallace; Sister Danielle; brothers and sister’s in-law Chris Cabana (Teresa), Greg Cabana, Amy Cabana and Laura Avis (Kenny) and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Rodney on Friday, March 3, 2017 from 6:00 – 9:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 4, at 11:30 AM in Saint Agnes Catholic Church, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.
From Tim E.
“I worked with Rodney in Spokane and got to know Carrie and the kids there. I found out last night about his passing and felt the need to leave a note for his family. He always beamed with delight whenever we spoke about his children. He loved each of you and was very proud even when there was a little mischief going on. He was a quiet leader and much appreciated by his colleagues. He supported those in need and made time to provide guidance. God bless each of you.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Rodney for several years in Spokane. He was so amazing!! He really supported nursing and all our struggles. He was one of the “good guys.” He really understood the struggles we faced. I will always remember his candor and ability to turn difficult discussions into thought provoking conversations about what was best for our patients. He was a true advocate in balancing the needs of everyone. He was a master at his trade and never lost sight of what we did and why we did it. Rodney gave us purpose and reason to do our best every day. He talked frequently about his family and his pride of being a husband and father always shined through. Words cannot express my deep sympathy for your loss.. Rodney was an amazing example to all.. your loss is ours..”
