Jared Earl Higbee

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Jared Higbee, a man who faced life’s greatest challenges with courage, laughter, and hope. Jared’s journey was one marked with profound loss and struggles, including miraculously surviving a gunshot wound to the abdomen with no significant harm and the heartbreaking loss of his first son, Desmond – a loss that contributed to his battle of constant searching and belonging. Yet, through it all, Jared’s gentle spirit and giant heart remained constant.

Jared made everyone feel like they belonged. He had the most contagious laugh and a remarkable humor, bringing levity to stressful situations. His love of the outdoors took him on many adventures, often leading the pack on rivers, over mountains, and through rocky terrain. He was a fisherman and loved to share the bounty by cooking his catch for others. He could often be found trolling in Grandpa Higbee’s old aluminum boat. One of his greatest joys was sharing his love of climbing and seeing the thrill on others’ faces as they conquered treacherous rock walls. He would buy extra equipment, anticipating the days when he could go climbing with friends and family. The observation, “Jared, you have too much stuff!” was met with “But I use my stuff, da**it!”

Jared possessed a superpower to feel deeply and love fiercely. He was not afraid to express heartfelt love and appreciation of others. He would drop everything to do anything for anyone, regardless of their background. He poured his heart into everything he touched, whether it was serving others through building or his remarkable talent for woodworking. He lived to serve and often found his purpose in extending himself generously to others’ tasks, and, when needed, their rescue. Skilled with his hands, Jared created beautiful works that stand as a testament to his creativity and dedication – a reflection of the gentle soul behind each creation.

Throughout his life, Jared sought connection with others and God, knowing HE lived and seeking to find Him in every way he could. Jared's seeking for the One was a powerful driving force, guiding him through the highs and lows of his journey even when he felt lost.

Jared was born at Cottonwood Hospital in Murray, Utah on October 21, 1978, the son of Dennis Lee Higbee and Diane Marie Green Higbee. He grew up in Riverton, Utah and had many neighborhood friends. He graduated in 1997 from Bingham High school, where he enjoyed participating as a member of the swim team. He served a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Argentina Neuquén Mission. He attended Utah Valley University, where he excelled in math studies and tutored a math lab. He worked for a few years at Fidelity Investments as a stockbroker before making a transition to construction work after trying his hand at several other professions. He loved building things with his hands.

Jared is preceded in death by his son, Desmond; grandparents, Earl and Donna Higbee, and Sheldon and Darlene Green. He is survived by his son, Hans; parents, Dennis and Diane Higbee; siblings, Matthew Higbee, Rachelle (Mike) Rawlings, Ben (Ashley) Higbee, and Jon (Rebeca) Higbee; and eight nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Broomhead Funeral Home, 12590 South 2200 West, Riverton, Utah, on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM for anyone who knew and loved Jared. Sunday-best dress is requested of those attending the service. Interment will take place immediately afterward at Riverton City Cemetery, 1500 West 13200 South, Riverton, Utah. Following the interment, family and friends are invited to a bring-your-own picnic at Riverton City Park, 1452 West, 12600 South, Riverton.

The service will be live streamed via Youtube Live below the obituary in the services section. Link to come. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to cover funeral expenses are gratefully received through a GoFundMe account under the name of Jared Earl Higbee. Thanks to the many who have already donated so generously.

The family expresses deep appreciation to all those who have shown their love and sympathy in word and deed. The family is also very grateful to all those first responders and medical personnel who have used their gifts and talents to make Jared’s journey easier.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=y3O5SFsvuKk