If you’ve attended a Chamber meeting, charity gala, Rotary breakfast or just about any community event in the past two decades, odds are you crossed paths with Cara Higgins. And odds are you remembered her.
Cara was the kind of woman who made things happen — and made it look effortless. At the time of her passing, she served on the boards of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) and the Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce, and was actively involved with the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club and the Military Affairs Committee. She was a respected attorney, dedicated mom, devoted daughter, loving sister and loyal friend — with a sharp sense of humor and a calendar that somehow bent time.
She was one of those people who didn’t just show up; she dove in, tackled challenges head-on, and gave her all to everything she did — whether it was work, relationships or everyday problems. Fearless and fiercely determined, she brought a rare mix of sharp intelligence, business savvy and unshakeable grit.
The accolades followed, of course. Cara was awarded the Athena International Award in 2018, recognizing her professional excellence and her role in inspiring other women to reach their potential. A year earlier, she received the William “Billy” Applerouth Award for her impact on Key West’s business community. Her Rotary journey began in 2005 and eventually led her to the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club in 2018 — yet another chapter in her lifelong love affair with public service.
But titles and trophies only tell part of the story.
Cara was a loving and devoted mother, and she was so proud of her children. They truly were her entire universe. Her family, partner and friends meant everything to her, and she traveled frequently to New Jersey to spend time with her loved ones, whom she adored.
She was a passionate Philadelphia Eagles fan, and during football season, her house was the place to be on Sundays. Her front door was always open. Cooking was her love language, and she loved hard. She poured her heart into every meal and found so much joy in sharing that love with the people around her.
In a town full of big personalities, Cara stood tall — not because she talked the loudest, but because she listened, cared and always showed up. She didn’t just believe in community service — she lived it. And Key West is better for it.
A devastating loss, she leaves behind family, a partner, friends, colleagues and an island that won’t soon forget her.
Plans for a celebration of life are expected to be announced in the coming days.
