William “Bill” Lough Heavner, 91, of Bridgewater, Virginia, passed away peacefully Feb. 1, 2024, at Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He had been in declining health for several years.
He was born Dec. 1, 1932, and was the son of the late Gertrude and Russell Heavner of Deer Run.
Mr. Heavner graduated from Franklin High School in 1950 and was a faithful member of Sangerville Church of the Brethren.
He liked to make things with his own hands. Throughout the valley are many rock fireplaces, picture frames, and chainsaw carved bears he created. Being an avid gardener, he was always eager to get started and reluctant to stop in the yard and garden each year. So much, that his grandson recalls him mowing grass in the snow. He passed along a love of outdoor adventures and particularly of hunting. He was lucky enough to understand how to appreciate and enjoy the simple pleasures, like the beauty of leaves in the fall or watching deer graze in a field.
He served in the Army from 1955 to 1957.
He routinely gave back to the community with acts of kindness like active participation as a big brother. He once walked from Harrisonburg, Virginia, to Oak Flat to raise money for a neighbor’s wheelchair, and also raised many blisters on his feet along the way.
On Dec. 1, 1950, he married the love of his life, Louise Loan from Millboro, Virginia. They enjoyed 69 years of married life.
Surviving are two sons, Michael (Kim) Heavner and Joe (Liz) Heavner; three grandchildren, Hunter (Nicole) Heavner, Matthew Heavner and Jessica Heavner; two brothers, Jerry Heavner (Phyllis) and Joe Heavner (Anna); and a sister, Mary Lee Heavner.
He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Betty Lou Mason (Charlie), and Alice Heavner.
A graveside service was held Monday at the Cedar Hill Cemetery in Franklin with Pastor Steve Spire officiating.
Arrangements were entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater, Virginia.
Online condolences to the family may be shared at www.johnsonfs.com.
