Jetty Mae Higgins

Jetty Mae (Byrd) Higgins, age 83, of Bradley County, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at Bradley Medical Center on October 6, 2025.

She was born on June 29, 1942, to the late Jewell and Cecil Byrd. Jetty absolutely loved being in church and worshiping the Lord, whom she faithfully served all her life. She had a heart for people—always ready to counsel, comfort, or simply spend time with those she loved. A gifted conversationalist and devoted friend, Jetty touched countless lives through her compassion and unwavering faith.

Jetty especially loved tending to her rose gardens and spending time with her family, with many treasured memories made in Daytona Beach. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and a devoted, Godly wife to her husband, Pastor Ray Higgins. Together, they shared 65 years of marriage, a true testament to enduring love and partnership in faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Jewell and Cecil Byrd, her daughter; Tina Maupin, her brothers; Charles Eugene Byrd and John Donald Byrd, and her sister; Patsy Gobble.

Jetty is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Pastor Ray Higgins; daughters, Angela Stinnett and Lora Higgins; sister, Brenda Smith; grandchildren, Brigette Hager, Heather (Adam) Thacker, and Jayme Stinnett; and great-grandchildren, Peyton Hager, Henley Hager, and Bennett Thacker. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember her with love and gratitude.

A lifelong resident of Bradley County, Jetty was a former member of Chestuee Baptist Church and was of the Baptist faith.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Poole Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Poole Funeral Home, with Pastor Ricky Vaughn and Pastor Lee Ingram officiating. Interment will follow at Hilcrest Memorial Gardens.

Jetty’s legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.