Dear Editor:

Mere words are unable to describe the brilliance, magnitude and unyielding compassion possessed within the personhood of Norman Higgins.

His uncompromising love and ability to forgive, under all circumstances, were qualities he was never without. Mr. Higgins is a far better man than I.

To a certain extent we were cut from the same cloth. Born and raised in big cities, he from Chicago, myself from New York City; we both enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served combat tours in Vietnam.

Forty years ago I came to the Keys to rebuild a broken life. Norm Higgins met me here and showed me how it was done. His undying friendship provided me with guidance and support until I could get back on my feet. Norm taught me about “spiritual principles”, as he modeled and provided an example of what goes into living a “Life of Honor”.

The energy and action he exuded in meeting the unending cries for assistance from his fellow citizens, were unparalleled to anything I’ve ever witnessed. Always, his efforts on behalf of another were done with a joyous and jubilant heart. Such selflessness and sacrifice for the sake of others, was standard operating procedure for this Man.

In the 70’s when Veterans were not highly thought of, Norm Higgins was the only person who would stand with me at the flag pole in front of our high school, when we instituted a Memorial Day program for our students, staff and community. Mr. Higgins’ courage, poise and grace were the reasons this program took off, becoming the standard for others to follow.

A few hours after Norm’s remains were removed from his home, I circled the street where his house is, over and over again, weeping and sobbing, for it hurt so bad to be alive without him.

I don’t know what I’m going to do without my Friend, Brother and Teacher. So many of us will miss him and never get over his passing. Norm Higgins was just that type of Man.

Always Faithful in my Love,
John Donnelly