Vivian J. Higgs

Vivian Higgs, a cherished librarian and vibrant member of the community, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Bryant, Arkansas. Born on April 4, 1945, as Vivian Keathley, she dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge and the enrichment of others through literature and learning.

Vivian’s career as a librarian with the Central Arkansas Library System spanned decades, during which she touched countless lives in Little Rock and Sherwood. Her profound love for books was rivaled only by her passion for sharing that love with others. Readers young and old found not just guidance but inspiration in her spirited demeanor and vast knowledge of literature.

A proud graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a BA in Fine Arts with an emphasis in painting. She was also an active member of the Arkansas Quilters Guild, Quest Quilters, and the American Quilters Society, where she created treasured pieces that spoke to her artistic spirit.

Vivian's love extended beyond her professional accomplishments. She is survived by her loving siblings, Harry Keathley (Betty) Lynn Soley (Joe) and Pat Jones, alongside her devoted daughters, Kathy Wilson (Chuck) and Becky Hopkins. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Robbie Torres (Jessica), Amber Willis (Eli), Jessica Cauliflower (James), Timothy Hopkins, and Melanie Turner (Colby), alongside her six great-grandchildren who brought her immeasurable joy.

Vivian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Edward Higgs, parents Barney and Betty Keathley, brother Thomas Keathley, grandaughter Jamie Hopkins and great-grandson Jax Torres. Her family remembers her with deep affection, and while she is missed profoundly, the lessons she imparted and the love she shared remain forever.

A Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home Little Rock on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 28 at 11:00 AM at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest at Rest Hills Cemetery in North Little Rock, commencing at 1:00 PM.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Fox Ridge Assisted Living and Hospice Homecare for the loving care they provided, ensuring Vivian’s final days were filled with compassion and dignity.

Vivian Higgs leaves behind a legacy shaped by kindness, creativity, and a fierce love for family and community, ensuring that the world remains just a bit more spirited in her absence. “WF!"