John Hollis Heggood

John “Big John” Hollis Heggood passed away peacefully in the arms of his daughter Tara on April 10, 2020 at his residence, following a long battle with diabetes. “Big John” was 76 years old, born on September 11, 1943 to John Frank Heggood and Elsie Jewel Johnson.

Mr. Heggood was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Ellen Heggood (lovingly referred to as “Boo-Boo”), his daughter, Haley Heggood, his mother, Jewel Howard, and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law from Ellen’s side of the family, mother-in-law, Mattie Pollock.

Mr. Heggood was a retired Columbus fireman, where he dedicated 30 years of his life as a first responder. He enjoyed the camaraderie of his fireman brotherhood, along with many friends who became family. “Big John” drove a fire engine for most of his career because he loved to constantly be “on the go”. When he was not at the fire department, he was driving a semi-truck for national and local freight liners. He worked hard to provide for his family, especially Tara who was competitively involved with several sports where “Big John” was her biggest fan! He loved his wife and daughters with absolution, utter dedication, and without condition. Standing tall at 6’5”, he was a “gentle giant” who gave the biggest bear hugs to anyone with the good fortune of receiving one.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Firefighter’s Honor Guard ceremony will be held at Park Hill cemetery on the 55th wedding anniversary of “Big John” and “Boo-Boo”, September 16, 2020. A specific time will be announced nearer to the event. “Big John” will also receive military honors commemorating his service in the United States Navy and The Navy Reserve.

Mr. Heggood is survived by his daughter, Tara L. Davidson (Rick), his grandchildren Johnathan Davidson, Matthew Davidson and Sydney Davidson, nine remaining brothers and sisters, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless others who will all miss him tremendously.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Georgia Firefighters Association or the Columbus, GA Firefighters Association.