John Parks Higginbotham, 59, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on December 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. John was born on December 29, 1965, in Texarkana, Texas, to Rufus Earl Higginbotham Jr. and Mary Helen (Parks) Higginbotham.

John lived a life defined by curiosity, creativity, and impossible-to-teach talent. For more than 38 years, he worked as an elite CNC machinist and programmer, mastering 3D and 5th-axis machining long before they were common in the industry. He spent his career shaping metal, creating precision work that benefited major companies across the country, and most recently, he worked as a CNC Machinist for Conveyor Technology in Maumelle, Arkansas. His craftsmanship, problem-solving skills, and joy for teaching others earned him respect everywhere he worked.

John’s talents extended far beyond machining. He obtained his pilot’s license and even built his own helicopter; a feat his family still tells stories about with amazement and pride. He loved creating 3D-printing models and painting them, crafting resin art, fabricating tools, and bringing wild ideas to life. If something could be built, improved, or imagined, John could do it.

Above all, John’s greatest love was music. A natural guitarist with a soulful ear, he played with authenticity and heart. His guitars were his constant companions, and his music filled the spaces of his life and the lives of those who loved him.

John was preceded in death by his son, Jonathan Rufus Higginbotham, and his parents, Rufus and Mary Helen Parks Higginbotham.

He is survived by one son, William Taylor Higginbotham of Lakeland, Florida, and one grandson, Skylar Higginbotham Kist, both of whom brought him endless pride and joy.

He is also survived by his siblings, Susie Higginbotham, Butch Higginbotham (Melissa), Gene Higginbotham, and BJ Golden (Tony Hughes).

He leaves behind a large family of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones, and friends who will forever miss his humor, his talent, and his guitar sessions.

John’s life was a blend of genius, stubbornness, creativity, and heart. He could fix anything, build anything, and make anyone laugh when they needed it most. His family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with his son Jonathan, making music together once again.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com