Wilmer "Bill" Thomas Heishman

Wilmer Thomas "Bill" Heishman, Jr., 85, of Bridgewater, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Sentara RMH Medical Center.

He was born on April 8, 1940, and was a son of the late Wilmer Thomas Heishman, Sr. and Frances Virginia (Glick) Heishman. Bill was united in marriage on August 15, 1959, to Gloria (Spitler) Heishman, who survives.

Bill was a Life Member of the International Association of Fire Fighters and served as Treasurer for Local 36. He retired as a Deputy Chief of the D.C. Fire Department. He was a member of Montezuma Church of the Brethren, where he served as a Deacon. Bill was an active participant of the Montezuma Ruritan Club and enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, camping, and woodworking. He and Gloria visited all 50 states, mostly in their motorhome, and spent many winters with friends at campgrounds in Florida.

Bill is survived by three children, Robin (Ken) Perry, Natalie (Vince) Ridgell, Beth (Curtis) Holiway; two sisters, Jane (Wes) Hare, Mary Frances Heishman; six grandchildren, Christopher Ponton, Erica (Matthew) Rhodes, Meredith (Russell) Repasky, Colin Ridgell, Peyton Holiway, Callie Holiway; two great grandchildren, Aubrey Ogle, Leilani Woomer; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by granddaughter, Ashley Ponton.

The family will receive friends and family between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Montezuma Church of the Brethren in Dayton. Burial is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's memory to the Montezuma Church of the Brethren Sanctuary Fund or Heroes, Inc.

Online condolences may be sent to the family atjohnsonfs.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater, Virginia.