When remembering Ricky Higgins, one thing is clear: he was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to a complete stranger.
“He loved deep,” said his oldest son, Lucas Higgins. “I know of two lives he was able to change forever, and that’s how he would want to be remembered.”
At the end of his life, Ricky’s family had to make some incredibly difficult decisions. Lucas stepped in as his decision-maker, determined to honor his father’s character and his decision to be an organ donor. Ricky always believed in giving, even in his final moments. Choosing to say “yes” to organ donation was a way to carry out what Ricky would have wanted—to help someone else, even when he couldn’t help himself.
Ricky passed away on April 30, 2024. He was 63 years old and had been in average health, with no history of heart problems. However, on the morning of April 25, he woke up with severe breathing issues. Although he was able to walk to the stretcher when paramedics arrived, he collapsed into cardiac arrest shortly afterward. Thanks to heroic efforts, his heart was restarted, but tragically, his brain had gone too long without oxygen, resulting in brain death.
In the ICU, faced with overwhelming medical decisions and pressure to withdraw life support, a compassionate voice broke through. A representative from HonorBridge sat down with Ricky’s family to explain that Ricky was already a registered donor. With dignity, respect, and kindness, the HonorBridge team helped guide them through the donation process, offering comfort during an unbearable time. Their support made a painful experience a little more bearable, allowing Ricky’s son to feel peace in knowing they were honoring his dad’s decision.
Because of Ricky’s selflessness, two lives were forever changed. Though the family has not yet connected with the recipients, they know the surgeries were successful. Two people now have hope for long, healthy lives—all thanks to Ricky’s final act of generosity.
Ricky’s son said it best:
“The recipients should just know a great man helped them when he couldn’t help himself—but he wouldn’t even want a thank you if he were here today. That’s the man Ricky Higgins was.”
Ricky’s spirit of giving lives on through the people he helped, and he will be forever remembered for the deep love and compassion he showed to others.
