Obituary of Stella Higgins

Stella Higgins (nee Caprio) of Clinton, NJ (formerly of Newark, NJ and Livingston, NJ) passed away peacefully at Independence Manor surrounded by her loving family on August 10, 2018, at the age of 88. Stella, also affectionately known as “Mom Mom,” “Grandma,” “Aunt Stella,” and “Mrs. H,” was an amazing mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend who touched the lives of so many with her signature gift of joy. Her smile, laughter, and true appreciation for the simple things in life will never be forgotten. Frequently proclaiming that she was the “luckiest person alive,” even when facing significant health challenges and heart aching losses, she taught all of us by example to focus our energy on the beautiful, positive blessings in our lives. 

Stella was born on June 25, 1930 in Newark, NJ. Her father was a barber and classical violinist; her mother worked in a sewing factory. Life was hard and money was tight, but their large, extended Italian family was full of colorful characters, Sunday afternoon dinners of meatballs and “gravy,” and lots of loud talk and fun. As she grew into a typical teenager of the times, Stella idolized Frank Sinatra and loved listening and dancing to the Big Bands. Newark, NJ was an entertainment mecca during her youth, and she proudly admitted that she would skip classes to attend movies and shows at the famous theatres there.Despite the cuts, she did manage to graduate from Central High School and begin her adult work life.

Although many could have mistakenly assumed that she was a meteorologist due to her affinity for watching the Weather Channel and tracking weather patterns across the world, especially in cities resided in or visited by her family, she was a secretary by trade. She worked for Tung Sol, the Newark Hall of Records, and Foster Wheeler. And, she was a volunteer Mass Card representative for the Vocationist Fathers up until the present day. A thoroughly modern woman during the 1950s, she managed to juggle motherhood and full-time work. Since her husband, a Newark patrolman early in his career, walked the beat on the night shift, she was able to hold a day shift job. They shared parenting responsibilities to reach their goal of saving enough money to purchase a house and to provide a solid future for their two children. She was very proud of the home and values they created for their family.

And, she was most proud of the love of her life, Don, whom she met on the Belmar beach over 65 years ago. Although she rarely allowed him to finish a sentence on his own, she absolutely respected his work ethic, commitment to family, budgeting skills, and intellect. They jitterbugged (literally!) through life together, sharing a love of travel particularly to cities that housed casinos: Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Reno, and Lake Tahoe. Later in life, staying closer to home was a preference, and the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA became a favorite destination.Watching Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and Casablanca on countless occasions were enjoyable pastimes, too.

Although she did marry the man of her dreams and cherished their life together, she had a life-long affair with Russell Stover (the chocolates). And, she also had a sweet spot for cream puffs, jelly donuts, pignoli cookies, and chocolate covered cherries. Desserts, candy, and food in general were a big part of her life. She never wanted anyone to leave her home feeling hungry. Before lunch was even done, she began plotting her dinner plans to overstuff you. Food brought people together was her thought, and she loved people—talking to them, offering them gentle advice and encouragement, and simply sharing a laugh or two with them. 

People. She was all about people. “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world.” She treasured her relationships with her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family; and she reveled in their accomplishments. She held dear all ofher long lasting friendships, especially those with the Kyzima, Donellan, Fania, DiLollo, and McCarthy families. And, she loved meeting new people each and every day. They brought such joy to her. Little did she realize just how much joy she also brought into each of their lives.

Stella was predeceased by her husband, Donald Higgins, and her parents, Anthony and Theresa (nee Ferrara). She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Fred Fania of Tewksbury, NJ; her son and daughter-in-law, Timothy and Una Higgins of Great Falls, VA; as well as her four grandchildren, Anthony Fania, Tess Higgins, Timothy Higgins, and Samantha Fania. She also is survived by her sister, Ann DeRogatis of Livingston, NJ. 

Friends and relatives may gather on Monday, August 13 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809. A mass of Christian burial will be offered on Tuesday, August 14 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Luke Parish, 265 W. Hill Road, Long Valley, NJ. Interment will follow at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Annandale, NJ. For further information or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.martinfh.com.