Johnny Mack Higgins, 79, of Shannon Hills, Arkansas passed away on May 2, 2026.

Johnny was born September 25th, 1946, to Jack and Mary Higgins in Searcy, Arkansas.  He grew up in Little Rock graduating from Mabelvale High School in 1964.

Johnny spent his life pursuing multiple skills and passions.  He was a Boy Scout who attained the rank of Life Scout, and served as an Assistant Scoutmaster later when his son joined the Scouts.  After high school he volunteered for service and served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1972, including a tour of duty in Vietnam, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.  After leaving the service, he worked as an aviation technician, and worked for various companies at the Little Rock Airport over the next 38 years until his retirement in 2010.  A few years later he came out of retirement to work at Bass Pro Shop where he worked in the fishing section until his health issues started to get the better of him.

He was a talented musician and made many memories with family and friends while sharing this skill.  A part of the Arkansas music scene for decades, he was a versatile lead guitarist who played well with others and worked with many bands and in many musical styles including Rock and Roll, Bluegrass, Country, and Western.

He is remembered as "Beer Dad" by many, due to years of expertise as a connoisseur of craft and specialty beers; he was a regular patron at the Flying Saucer and left a lasting impression with 36 plates dedicated to him gracing their walls.

He was a member of the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He served as Post Commander for American Legion Post in North Little Rock.

He was a 32nd Degree Freemason, and a Shriner. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson in parades and cross country on road trips.

He was extremely gregarious, and never met a stranger.  He was a loving husband for over 59 years and was a beloved father to his two sons.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn "Anita" Byars Higgins, and his sons, John Daniel "Danny" (Suzanne) and Jack Patrick.  He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Christopher F.E. (Carriann) Higgins and Brianna S.K. (Thomas) Higgins Congdon, and two great grandchildren, Rose and Adonis.  Also his sister, Joyce Higgins Kennedy Mays.

He is preceded in death by his parents Jack Higgins Sr. and Mary Katherine Downing Higgins, and his brother, Jack "Buddy" Higgins Jr.

A funeral/memorial service/celebration of life will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 at the Arkansas State Veterans' Cemetery in North Little Rock.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Shriners Children's Hospital / acts of kindness / another preference.

The family wishes to thank (any caregivers, friends, or organizations) for their support.  Johnny Mack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.