Erika W. Higgins

Erika W. Higgins passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at the age of 86. Erika was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose warmth, intelligence, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.

Erika was born on May 10, 1940, in Freiburg, Germany and came to the United States at the age of 18. Through hard work and determination, she put herself through college, earned her Master’s degree and built a successful career in financial services. She spent many years as a financial planner with The Equitable, where she built lasting relationships and helped guide countless clients with care and integrity.

Erika found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved books, puzzles, gardening and conversation. Above all, Erika loved spending time with family. Nothing brought her more pride and joy than her grandchildren. Following her retirement, she dedicated herself fully to them, helping raise and care for them when they were young and spending countless hours with them as they grew up. She adored them, and they adored her in return.

She is survived by her daughters Robin Carey and Renee Reilly, sons-in-law Jim Carey and Rob Reilly, and her five grandchildren Caroline, Jack, and Annie Carey, and Vivian and Samantha Reilly.

Her family will remember her for her unwavering love, generous spirit, sense of humor, and the example she set through a life lived with purpose, kindness and grace.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Catherine of Siena Church in Riverside, Connecticut.