Gary James “BIG G” Heady

Gary James “BIG G” Heady, 70, entered into his heavenly home on Wednesday, June 14th, 2023. He exemplified the definition of a God-fearing southern gentleman. A true one of a kind, who absolutely adored his wife of 46 years, his family, and his many friends.

Gary was born in Danville, VA on July 15, 1952 to John Henry and Elizabeth Heady. He grew up in Danville where he fell in love with football and baseball and even met his lifelong friend across the track, Jack “Hoot” Wilson. Gary played football at Duke University from 1970-1974 and has always loved his Duke Blue Devils.

After leaving Durham, Gary met the love of his life on a blind date at Don’s in downtown Columbia. Gary and Pattie married just six months later! And up to the time of Gary’s passing their love was still evident to all in any room. That love that he always displayed to Pattie, was also displayed to his children and to all those that were fortunate to be in his presence.

Big G had a huge smile and even bigger heart. He had such an impact on the community and is truly leaving an incredible legacy. He was known by many as the “Voice of the Yellow Jackets” as he spent many nights jamming out in the baseball press box at Irmo High School. He loved nothing more than to play those baseball songs and see the crowd dancing to “Come on ride that Train.” As his children grew up, he did not miss a game, a cheer competition, or any opportunity to cook his famous waffles on a Saturday morning. He loved his church family at Riverland Hills Baptist and enjoyed teaching Sunday School to the CRC/Castaways.

Gary and Pattie fulfilled their dream of living at the beach when they moved to their paradise at Ocean Isle Beach, NC in 2019. He loved basking in the sun with his Hawaiian Tropic #4 and watching his family enjoy the pool and beach while listening to Zac Brown on his DemerBox. Gary loved attending all parties and events (especially those with Shag bands!) OIB hosted weekly concerts in the park, and the last few summers, he was shaggin’ away with Pattie or grabbing the hands of his daughters and grandchildren on those Friday evenings.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Patricia “Pattie” Moseley Heady; son Gary James Heady Jr, daughters Caroline Lewter (Woody), and Taylor Dowling (Curtis); eight grandchildren Elliot Reeves, Harper Reeves, Devin Lewter, London Lewter, Badger Lewter, Sadie James Dowling, Wyatt Dowling and Sloane Dowling; and sister Brenda Dean (Paul); brother in law Larry Moseley (Jerri) and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Riverland Hills Baptist Church on Sunday, June 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. Please join the family for hors d’oeuvres and ice cream in Big G’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Winners Travel Foundation by Dr. Clayton Lowder: www.winnerstravelfoundation.com Big G would want you to live the “Winners Travel” life.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dunbarfuneralhomedutchfork.com for the Heady family.