Mary Lee Heaton

December 14, 1928 –July 6, 2024

Atlantic Beach, Florida resident, Mary Lee Coleman Heaton, passed away on July 6 at ninety-five years of age. She was a native of Jacksonville, Florida, and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John H. Coleman. Mary Lee grew up in the Riverside area of Jacksonville attending Robert E. Lee High School. After graduating high school, she went on to attend Mary Washington College in Virginia.

Mary Lee was married to her husband of sixty-five years, Richard (Dick) Leonhardt Heaton in 1949. Together they raised 6 children. Her two favorite roles in life were being a wife and mother to her six children. She also enjoyed being “Mimi” to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mary Lee was always able to find time to be there for them all. It was not uncommon to see her on the floor playing with a grandchild. Another great love was Mary Lee’s many dachshunds. The house was very seldom without a four legged “baby” being spoiled and loved on.

Mary Lee loved her church. As an active member of the Community Presbyterian Church of Atlantic Beach for over 48 years, Mary Lee served on the Board of Trustees and also, as a member of the Session. If there was a need she could fill, Mary Lee was there. She was also involved in the CPC Women of the Church serving two terms as President and also as the Church Historian.

Mary Lee enjoyed traveling with her husband visiting their children and making various trips throughout Europe. One of their favorite places was Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. In addition, they shared a love for flowers. They were well known for their yards and were often recognized for their beautiful gardens. Mary Lee and Dick were never without a greenhouse. They were known for their camellias, orchids, and daylilies among so many other flowers. Mary Lee was active in Garden Clubs and had many award-winning entries. She loved playing bridge and participated in groups wherever they lived.

In addition to her parents, Mary Lee was predeceased by her loving husband, Dick, her son Richard Leonhardt Heaton, Jr., grandson Richard Leonhardt Heaton, III, her brothers-John H. Coleman, Jr. and Walter J. Coleman, her sister Martha J. Coleman, and many dear friends.

She is survived by her children: Pat (Dave) Randall of Tomball, TX; Nancy (Steve) Keen of Canton, GA; John (Chandler) Heaton of Atlantic Beach, FL; Tom (Stephanie) Heaton of Atlantic Beach, FL; and Harry (Patti) Heaton of Dacula, GA; Fourteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

A service of Love and Remembrance will be held at Community Presbyterian Church, Atlantic Beach, FL on July 13 at 2:30 in the afternoon.

The family offers their heartfelt appreciation to the many caregivers, family, and dear friends who have been supportive in so many ways. You have been a true blessing to our family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mary Lee’s name to the Community Presbyterian Church in Atlantic Beach, Florida.