Debra Higgins' Obituary
Debra Nadine Johnson Higgins
Debra Nadine Johnson Higgins, age 70, passed peacefully
on February 5, 2026, surrounded by love. She was born on
October 27, 1955, in Lakeland, Florida. Her life was a
beautiful testimony of faith, devotion, and grace.
Debra was the beloved wife of Bishop James Higgins, with
whom she shared 51 years of marriage and a life rooted in
love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Her first and
greatest love was for Jesus. Family was the joy of her heart,
and she especially loved birthdays and Christmas—any
occasion that gathered her family together. She was a
devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother
whose nurturing spirit and gentle, honest strength shaped
countless lives and will continue to influence generations to
come.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Debra loved the Lord
and lived her life in service to Him and to others. She
faithfully served alongside her husband for 45 years in
ministry. She was a worshiper who cherished nothing more
than being in the presence of her Savior. She was a prayer
warrior, singer and songwriter, teacher, administrator, and
spiritual caregiver to multitudes throughout her lifetime.
She was a faithful member of Tabernacle of Praise Tampa
Bay, where her kindness, prayers, and encouragement
touched countless lives. Her faith was not only spoken—it
was lived daily through compassion, generosity, and
steadfast love.
Those who knew Debra will remember her warm smile, her
quiet strength, and her unique ability to make others feel
seen and deeply cherished. She was well known for her red
velvet cake, blonde brownies, and roast, and she lovingly
crocheted blankets for her family as treasured keepsakes.
She carried grace through both joyful seasons and difficult
ones, and her life consistently reflected hope, even in the
face of adversity.
She is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Bishop
James Higgins; her daughter, Jami Higgins Thompson; sonin-law, Thomas Thompson; granddaughter, Trinity
Thompson (Kevin); great-grandchildren, Bayne and Birdie;
and grandson, Jarin Thompson.
She is also survived by her sons: Jeremy James Higgins
(Mia) and their sons, Jayce and Jayden, who is already in
heaven; Joshua Aaron Higgins (Jenny) and their children,
Jocelyn, Raquel, Leon, Miles, and Waylon; Jesse Amyas
Higgins (Rebecca) and their children, Memphis and
McKinley; and Jariah Michael Higgins (Katie) and their
sons, Jackson and Riley.
She is further survived by her brother, Larry Johnson
(Barbara); her sister, Kandi Johnson; and many dear
relatives and friends who loved her deeply.
A celebration of Debra’s life will be held Tuesday, February
17, 2026, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 11005 N. US
Highway 301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592. Visitation will be
held at 12 noon. A Celebration of a Life Well Lived at 1pm.
Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the promise that
she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord she loved so
dearly. Her legacy of faith, love, and devotion will live on
in all who were blessed to know her.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I
have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a
crown of righteousness…”
—2 Timothy 4:7–8 (KJV)
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.
https://gofund.me/8dfaa91d8
What’s your fondest memory of Debra?
What’s a lesson you learned from Debra?
Share a story where Debra's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Debra you’ll never forget.
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