William "Bill" Lough Heavner
William "Bill" Lough Heavner, 91, of Bridgewater, passed away peacefully at Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation on February 1, 2024. He had been in declining health for several years.
Bill was born December 1, 1932 and was the son of the late Gertrude and Russell Heavner of Deer Run, WV.
He graduated from high school in Franklin, WV 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. Bill 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 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 to Oak Flat, West Virginia 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, VA. They enjoyed 69 years of married life.
They had two sons, Michael (Kim) Heavner, and Joe (Liz) Heavner; three grandchildren, Hunter (Nicole) Heavner, Matthew Heavner, Jessica Heavner; brothers, Jerry Heavner (Phyllis), Joe Heavner (Anna); sister, Mary Lee Heavner.
Bill was preceded in death by sisters, Betty Lou Mason (Charlie), and Alice Heavner.
Friends and family may pay their respects and sign the guest book on Sunday, February 4, 2024 from 10 AM - 5 PM at Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Monday February 5th at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Franklin, WV with Pastor Steve Spire officiating.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. Online condolences to the family may be shared at www.johnsonfs.com.
