Roy Alan Higgins

Roy Alan Higgins, 83, of Amelia Island, Fla., passed away peacefully on the evening of Nov. 12 in the comfort of his home. He was one of four children, born in New York to Alfred and Annetta (Hansen) Higgins. 
During his attendance at Dobbs Ferry High School, Roy was a remarkable basketball player, which included the stellar 1957 championship season. After graduating from the prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, he entered the world of finance and rose to prominence as Chief Financial Officer of Simmonds Precision Products Inc., an aerospace company designing fuel and ignition systems for commercial and advanced military aircrafts, along with the space shuttle program.
On April 11, 1970, Roy married the love of his life, Bonnie Maureen O'Brien of Westchester County, N.Y. In their 53 years of marriage, they moved from Tarrytown, N.Y., to Briarcliff Manor, N.Y., where they raised their children. They also built a home on Snows Mountain in Waterville Valley, N.H., where many memories were made. In 1994, they established roots on Amelia Island, Fla. For 28 years, Roy and Bonnie enjoyed road-tripping back and forth between New Hampshire and Florida, always stopping through New York to visit friends and eat at their favorite spots. 
Roy cherished his numerous vacations to St. Martin with Bonnie along with many business trips to Holland. He was especially proud of having the opportunity to frequently fly on the Concord, including one special occasion with his family. Other great memories were made on Long Beach Island, N.J., and boating on Squam Lake, N.H., aboard the "Bonnie O' Brien." Roy had a special bond with the family dog, a shih tzu named Sturtevant. The pair were inseparable, and we are comforted knowing that these two buddies are reunited.
Roy, a beloved husband, father, pop pop, brother-in-law, uncle and wonderful friend to many who knew him, was predeceased by his sister, Elaine, and brothers, Robert and James. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; children, Edward, Susan, Jennifer Joyner (Mark) and Patrick (Stephanie); grandchildren, Sawyer, Devon, Natalie, Kate, Luke, Levi and Ryan.
The family would like to thank all the medical professionals and care teams at the Baptist Medical Center-Fernandina Beach and Promedica/Heartland Hospice for the care and compassion they showed Roy in his final days. In lieu of a traditional service, we will gather to honor and celebrate Roy's life at a later date. Further details will be shared with family and friends in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we appreciate your thoughts and support during this difficult time.