He is survived by his brother, James William Higgins; his two sons, Steven A. Higgins of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Jason Arron Higgins of Blacksburg, Virginia; and his four grandchildren-two grandsons and two granddaughters. He is also survived by four nieces and one nephew.
Steve proudly served in the United States Army and later worked as a prison guard, careers that reflected his sense of duty and responsibility. He was a faithful member of Friendship Pentecostal Church for 45 years. Steve was a caregiver by nature, lovingly caring for his mother and his sisters when they were in need. He had a gentle, friendly spirit and truly never met a stranger. People were naturally drawn to him, and he had a way of making others feel seen and comfortable.
Steve made his home at the Ridgeway Apartments in Monticello, Arkansas, where he was surrounded by many friends who became like family to him. He was deeply cared for and watched over by those around him, especially Shelly Smith, who managed the apartments and looked after Steve with kindness and concern. Ridgeway was truly his home, and it is where he passed away peacefully.
Steve had a deep love for writing poetry and took great pride in his poems. Writing was one of the primary ways he expressed care and compassion for others. Whenever someone was grieving, struggling, or facing a hard time, Steve would write a poem specifically for them and hand it to them as a personal gift. His poetry was his way of offering comfort, understanding, and connection.
He enjoyed reading books and watching westerns, a genre he especially loved. Steve also enjoyed cooking simply for the pleasure of it, especially making sweet foods. He had a strong fascination with guns and took a personal interest in them throughout his life.
Steve will be remembered for his kindness, his servant's heart, his handwritten poems that brought comfort to many, and his quiet devotion to caring for others. His life reflected compassion, faith, and sincerity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.
Funeral arrangements will be announced soon by Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home.
Condolences(6)
Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Tuesday, January 27, 2026 My condolences go to Steve's family and friends at this sad time. He was a kind person and well liked.Andrew Briant
. Monticello, AR Monday, January 26, 2026 Condolences to his family. Steve was a nice guy. I'm sure he willbe missed.
Sherry Myers
Monticello, AR Monday, January 26, 2026 He was a good person and I am kin to him.He did everything for everyone.Shelley Smith
Monticello, AR Sunday, January 25, 2026 I manage the apartment complex where Steve spent the last two years. I can't imagine how different things will be without him around, telling corny jokes and blasting Mtv in the lobby. He spent his time being a helper and had a servant's heart for anyone that needed anything at all. He often took out the complex's trash and cleaned the smoking area every single day even though he didn't even smoke. He just loved to stay busy and took a lot of pride in making the hang out area nicer for others. Always the first to offer assitance with anything I did, and the first to check on others through me if he knew they were sick or in the hospital. Losing Steve will leave a big void-- he was a very loved part of our Ridgeway family. Our condolences are with you. <3LaWanda McManus Booth
Hamburg, AR Sunday, January 25, 2026 So very sorry for the loss of your brother. As a friend, we’ve known Steve for a long time . I know that he will be greatly missed. Prayers for all of you .Love a friend,
LaWanda McManus Booth
Stacy Cater
Monticello, AR Thursday, January 22, 2026 My sympathies to the family. Steven was a sweet man. Sorry to hear he is gone.