Earl Patrick Higgs

It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Earl (E.P.) Higgs of Socorro, New Mexico. He left us unexpectedly on the morning of July 16, 2023 while visiting Le Grand, California. E.P. leaves behind cherished memories and a profound impact on the lives of all who were fortunate to know and love him.

E.P. was born February 6, 1965 in Charleston, South Carolina, to Jeanne M. Eisan and Earl E. Higgs Jr. He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by the mother of his children and former wife, Laura Higgs; his daughters, Alyssa Higgs and Jennell Diaz; son-in-law, Steven Diaz; granddaughters, Nyla Antillon and Ellie Diaz; and grandson, Eli Diaz. He is also survived by his brothers, Edwin Higgs and Scott (Amber) Stetson.

E.P., as he was affectionately known by many, was a beacon of light and warmth in the lives of those around him. Although born on the East coast and spending much of his childhood there, he always called Socorro, New Mexico – “home”. At the age of twelve his family moved to Socorro and E.P. could be found riding his bike on Evergreen Drive with his brothers and friends. While in high school E.P. was passionate about football and was proud to be on the field as #77. Not only did he play football, but he ran track and threw discuss. E.P. was quite the social butterfly and had friends everywhere he went.

Following high school, E.P. began his law enforcement career by graduating the police academy at the early age of nineteen. He felt that it was so important for him to give back to his community and he was known by many as a dedicated law enforcement officer for nearly 40 years. E.P. served in various roles with the Socorro Police Department, the Albuquerque Police Department, the Socorro County Sheriff’s Department, and New Mexico Tech Campus Police. In his early twenties, E.P. entered the triathlete world and became an avid cyclist and triathlete. Throughout his career, he completed four ironman triathlons, for which he was so proud. He shared his passion for exercising with all, and could be found riding his bike throughout New Mexico, or persuading and recruiting others to be active.

More than anything, E.P. was a husband and father. His life lessons and passions were shared with his family throughout his life. E.P. volunteered as a swimming official to get a front row seat at his daughters’ swim meets. He would travel countless miles to support his girls at their swim meets, track meets, and soccer games; he even re-established and coached the Socorro High School swim team in the early 2000’s so that his daughters could continue their careers throughout high school. Many of his family trips revolved around triathlons and swim meets, but he always made sure to throw in a trip to an amusement park. His family will always remember him for his sense of adventure. E.P. loved to travel and “go for a drive.” He also enjoyed swimming, biking, hiking, hunting, skiing, river rafting and canoeing, and taking photos.

E.P. will be remembered by all that knew him as a wonderful friend who was always available to lend a helping hand. He was the person who would pick up the phone or send a text on your birthday or when he was thinking of you. He was not afraid to say he loved you or how proud he was of you. He was passionate, lively, dependable, and so very generous. All of these qualities have left an indelible mark on our hearts.

To honor and pay tribute to E.P.'s remarkable life, we invite family, friends, and well-wishers to join us for memorial services. During the memorial service, we will gather to share our fondest memories, find comfort in one another, and celebrate the life of E.P. There will be an opportunity for those who wish to offer their words of remembrance to do so.

Memorial Services will be held on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at 10:00am and a second service will take place at 4:00pm at FRENCH-Lomas. Join us to commemorate the life of a remarkable soul.

A memorial mass will take place on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 9:00am, at St Therese of the Infant Jesus Catholic Church.