Brett Edwin Higginbotham

Brett Edwin Higginbotham, age 51, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away at home surrounded by family on May 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.
Brett was born on August 3, 1973, and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. He dedicated over two decades of his life in service to his country, proudly serving in the Air Force Air National Guard and the Army National Guard. He served his country with honor and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant from the 190th Security Forces. His commitment, strength, and quiet leadership left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of serving beside him.
Above all, Brett loved his family deeply. He is survived by his daughters, Sierra Higginbotham (Juan Portillo) and Averi Higginbotham; his beloved grandchildren, Jaimeson and Liam Higginbotham Portillo; and his spouse, Ann Bruer. He is also survived by his mother, Catherine Carpenter, and stepfather, Craig Carpenter; his stepmother, Linda Higginbotham; and his brother, Shawn Higginbotham (Amanda). He was preceded in death by his father, David Higginbotham.
Brett found joy in the simple things: casting a line while fishing with friends, exploring new places, and spending quality time with his children and grandchildren. He was known for his strength, loyalty, patience, and quiet kindness - a steady presence and source of comfort to those who knew and loved him.
Some of Brett's proudest moments were seeing Averi graduate from high school and welcoming his grandchildren into the world - milestones that filled him with pride and purpose.
Visitation will be 2pm, Saturday, May 31, 2025 followed by a Celebration of Brett's life at 3pm, at Heartland Cremation and Burial Society, 802 NW Vesper St, Blue Springs, Missouri 64015. The family welcomes anyone who knew him to join in honoring his memory.
As the lyrics of Hotel California and Fields of Gold echo in our hearts, we remember a man whose legacy of love, service, and strength will live on in the lives of those he touched.