Jay Gould Higgs

February 28, 1934 - September 17, 2020

Jay Gould Higgs, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2020, at Diamond Care Living, Riverside, California, surrounded by his loving caretaking staff and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Mary Jane Higgs, and he is very grateful to finally join her in eternal life. Born and raised in Key West, Florida, Jay was an only child who loved the ocean, fishing, and was devoted to his mother. Jay always said that because he was an only child, he “wanted what he wanted when he wanted it.” Mary Jane Higgs both understood and loved that determination in Jay. Jay and Jane met while Jay was serving in the USAF in Puerto Rico and Jay knew that Jane was the one. They married, and Jay completed his term of service. They returned to Riverside, California, and looked for the perfect home. They settled on a home at the base of the Mt. Rubidoux cross, and they shared memories there for more than 50 years. Jay enjoyed a successful career as a teacher, pursuing a Master’s degree, and becoming a well-respected principal in Rialto Unified School District. Jay is survived by his loving sister-in-law, Adele Lusk, of South Bend, Indiana, and his adopted Hartzell family, friends, and neighbors on Glenwood Drive, and at Diamond Care Living. Special gratitude to Rose, Flor, Florante, Lourdette, Lita, Casey, John, and Bee, who made Jay feel so loved and cared for this last year.