Colonel Glenn A. Higginson passed away shortly before his 100th birthday in the comfort of his home, with his son and cat by his side. Until the very end, he enjoyed playing cards, watching sports, taking outside excursions, and eating Rosa's Mexican food.

Born in California, he married the love of his life, Stella Fay, while stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. The two met at the Fox Theatre and celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary shortly before Stella's passing in 2008.

Glenn achieved the rank of colonel in the Air Force and held a world record for flying the longest distance with the heaviest cargo in a Grumman Albatross plane. He spent some of his career abroad in Libya and Turkey, conducting water rescues in his amphibious aircraft. He formed lifelong friendships with many of the local people and could often be heard saluting his friends in Turkish with "Hadi bye-bye."

After retiring, Glenn invested in real estate and developed a subdivision in Pflugerville, Texas. In his retirement, he pursued various passions, becoming an accomplished cyclist and avid golfer, and honing his skills in oil painting and stained glass. He also traveled the world, often taking his grandchildren on adventures to Turkey, Europe, and beyond. Glenn was known for his intelligence, athleticism, impeccable moral values, timeless dapper good looks, and his love for his family and friends.

Above all, Glenn was a family man, emphasizing the importance of family throughout his life. His spirit of generosity, dedication, and love left an indelible imprint on his family. As a true patriarch, he provided a stable foundation for those who loved him. The fact that three of his descendants are named after him is a testament to the profound impact he made and the love they had for him.

He is survived by his son, Michael Glenn; his grandchildren Terra, Aurora, Scott, and Glenn Patrick; his great-grandchildren Elijah Glenn, Audrey, and Beatrice Stella; and his extended family Lyn Lucchetti, Kent Anthony, Marcy Anthony, Jessica Bauer, and dedicated caregiver Anne. His wife, Stella Fay, daughter Cynthia, and grandson, Craig, passed before him.

Glenn was blessed with a love for animals and learned from an early age from his parents to "always care for the animals first." Glenn's caring nature extended to his animals in his later years. Mornings were spent at the dog park with friends and his dogs, Koda and Kubry. At home, his affection for his cats, Archibald and Mahitabel, was apparent, and a portion of his bed was dedicated to them. In his last years, Kitty Boy was his constant companion, sitting in his lap for daily pets until Glenn passed away.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Glenn's name to the Pima Animal Care Center (PACC) in memory of his deep affection for all companion animals.

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