James Howard Higgs

It is with deep love and profound gratitude that the family of James “Jimmy” Howard Higgs announces his passing. A resident of Manassas, Virginia, Jimmy lived a life defined by faithful service, quiet generosity, and an unshakable devotion to the people he loved. He was, above all, a man who showed up — for his family, for his community, and for the countless young lives he touched along the way.

Born of humble means, Jimmy Higgs built his life the old-fashioned way — through hard work, determination, and character. He went on to attend the University of Richmond, where he became a proud brother of Sigma Chi fraternity, forging lifelong bonds and laying the foundation for a life of service and leadership.

Jimmy devoted 35 years of his life to serving the United States Government, exemplifying the same discipline and integrity in his work that he carried into every corner of his life. Raised in the Methodist faith, he didn’t merely attend church — he lived its calling. His faith was not a Sunday gesture; it was the compass by which he navigated every day.

A FIFA certified soccer coach, Jimmy poured his heart into youth sports, coaching his son in both baseball and soccer with patience, encouragement, and a competitive fire tempered by grace. But his coaching extended far beyond any field or scoreboard. Jimmy became a father figure to many young people who had no father of their own — offering presence, guidance, and love without condition or recognition. He believed every child deserved someone in their corner, and he made sure they had one.

An avid golfer, Jimmy found joy and fellowship on the course, where his competitive spirit and good humor made every round memorable. He lived life on his own terms — authentic, generous, and full. His friendship with Peter Bryce, spanning more than four decades, and his friend Dennis Gershowitz of over 20 years, stood as a testament to the loyalty and depth of character that defined Jimmy Higgs.

To his son Phil, Jimmy was not just a father — he was a best friend, a mentor, and a man who dedicated his life to being present. He taught Phil to hunt, to fish, and to become a man, passing down not just skills but a way of being in the world. The man Phil has become is Jimmy’s greatest legacy, and that legacy will carry forward for generations.

Though Jimmy and Patricia Higgs had gone their separate ways, they never allowed that to diminish what mattered most — their son. Phil never spent a Christmas or a birthday without both of his parents present. When Patricia was diagnosed with cancer, Jimmy was there alongside his son Phil, making the trips to Richmond for her treatments and standing by her side until the end. She preceded him in death on April 19, 2021.

He was preceded in death by Patricia Higgs; son Paul Brunsgaard; and sisters Pat Leonard and Linda Edwards.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved son, Phil Higgs of Manassas, Virginia; son Peter Brunsgaard of Maryville, Tennessee; daughter Patrice Sullivan of Purcellville, Virginia; brother Ed Higgs of Fort Worth, Texas; sister Betty Richardson of Richmond, Virginia; granddaughters Hannah Grace Higgs of Manassas, Virginia, and Hallie Frances Higgs of Missouri City, Texas; and his treasured friend of more than 40 years, Peter Bryce.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23