Shirley Ann Sullivan

MARBLEHEAD - Shirley Ann Sullivan, 73, of Marblehead, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Beverly on May 28, 1953, Shirley was the daughter of the late Joseph Sullivan, former Salem Fire Chief, and Louise (Grasso) Sullivan. She was raised in Salem and graduated from Salem High School in 1971.

Shirley was known for her warmth, generosity, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. She worked for many years managing several beloved North Shore restaurants and later in medical billing, earning the respect and affection of coworkers, friends, and customers alike. A devoted mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for her children, often holding multiple jobs while never losing sight of what mattered most to her—family.

Growing up in a large, close-knit Italian and Irish family, Shirley spent countless hours with her children at her parents’ home in Salem, the center of family life and cherished gatherings. There, generations came together to share meals, laughter, and traditions that Shirley carried with her throughout her life.

At sixteen, Shirley met Leonard Nelson Higgins Jr., whom she later married after his return from military service in Vietnam. Together, they raised four children: David, Nicole, Michelle, and Brian. Although they later divorced, they remained lifelong friends united by their love for their family.

Nothing brought Shirley greater joy than her children and grandchildren. She treasured every birthday, holiday, family gathering, and moment spent together. Her love, humor, strength, and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Shirley is survived by her children, David Higgins and his wife, Melissa, of Madawaska, Maine; Nicole Salemi and her husband, Stephen, of Marblehead; Michelle Higgins of Madison, New Hampshire; and Brian Higgins and his wife, Valarie, of Middleton. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, David Jr., Akira, Michael, Amelia, Ava, and Lily; her sisters, Janet Sullivan of Danvers and Joyce Klingensmith and her husband, Jon, of Topsfield; her sister-in-law, Shirley Gregware of Marblehead; and many beloved nieces and nephews: Kimberly, Kelly, Chrissy, Amy, Kimmy, Joe, Jake, and Christopher.

She was predeceased by her parents; her sister and best friend, Joanne Parent, and Joanne’s husband, Richard Parent; and her former husband and dear friend, Leonard Nelson Higgins Jr.

Shirley will be remembered for her kindness, sense of humor, strength, generosity, and unconditional love for her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts, stories, traditions, and laughter of all who knew and loved her.

ARRANGEMENTS: Visiting hours will be held at O’Donnell’s Cremation – Funeral - Celebration, 84 Washington Square (at Salem Common), SALEM on Monday, June 15th, from 4 to 7 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Shirley's graveside Funeral Service will be privately held. In keeping with Shirley’s generous spirit, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association at donorservices.alz.org. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.