Dr. Mary Eileen Higgins

Dr. Mary Eileen Higgins passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

Eileen was a woman who truly loved life. She found joy in the simple moments, in nature, and in the people around her—especially her family and her close, lifelong friends. She was always up for anything—an adventure, a gathering, or a new experience—and brought warmth, laughter, and energy wherever she went.

Eileen was deeply proud of her career as a professor at Frostburg State University, where she inspired and mentored countless students over the years. She earned her Ph.D. in Business and truly loved teaching, sharing her knowledge, and helping others grow. Her passion for education and her dedication to her students left a lasting impact.

Her greatest pride and joy was her family. As a mother, she gave her whole heart, always showing up with love, support, and encouragement. As a grandmother, she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, taking them to Longwood Gardens, Grounds for Sculpture, and many other cultural events. She also embraced her role as a mother-in-law with kindness and openness, making everyone feel like part of the family.

Eileen had a generous spirit and gave back to her community through her volunteer work at Grounds for Sculpture, the Moorestown Library and The Elephant Sanctuary. She loved reading, her book club, and the dear friendships she built through it, and she had a natural gift for connecting with others. She made a lasting impact on everyone she met.

She also had a deep love for travel, often exploring new places with her friends, children, and grandchildren. Whether near or far, those trips were filled with joy, laughter, and memories that will be treasured forever.

Eileen is survived by her loving children, Jim and Joe; her cherished grandchildren, Ariana, Finn, Ben, Joey, Leo, and Quincy, her daughter in Laws Evelyn and Brooke, her grand-dogs, Tally, Bella, and Zeus; along with extended family and many dear friends who will miss her deeply. She is reunited with her beloved husband, Ed; her sisters, Millie and Gracie; and her parents. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave so freely and the memories she created with those around her.

A small private family cremation ceremony will be held on April 25, 2026. A Celebration of Life will follow on July 11, 2026, with additional details to be shared.

In honoring Eileen, her family encourages others to embrace life as she did—with an open heart, a sense of adventure, and a deep love for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Or plant a tree in her memory.

She will be forever remembered and always missed.